Changes threaten retail, says report

By John Van Klaveren
“SWEEPING” changes to Victoria’s planning laws threaten the viability of regional retail and business centres, according to a Geelong council report.
“These changes allow shops and offices, without a floor space cap, to encroach into residential areas,” the report said.
The result would be the “quasi expansion” of neighbourhood activity and strip shopping areas.
The changes failed to include “proper” consideration of the impact on neighbourhoods and the viability of existing stores in retail centres.
The report said the changes meant more uncertainty for planning permit applicants.
Council would consequently be in direct conflict with State Government over election promises to provide improved certainty, it said.
The changes proposed consolidation of five existing business zones into two new commercial zones.
They would be “immediately translated” into all planning schemes next month, the report said.
“The retail sector is going through major transitions as consumer behaviour changes and planning policy needs to assist traditional shopping strips to continue to thrive.
“Council supports the State Government initiative to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses and stimulate the commercial sector. However, there is a distinct lack of consultation and clear direction on the purpose of these reforms.”
The Government had failed to supply a strategic justification for the “wide-ranging” changes or evidence of the implications on existing and future centres, the report said.
“It is extremely difficult to assess the full impact of the changes in the time provided.”
The report criticised a “one-size-fits-all” change to rural zones.
The change could encroach business and industry into farmland, fragment rural landscapes and blur their boundaries with urban areas, the report warned.
A consequent increase in demand for cheaper farmland could force up rural land prices, making farming too expensive.
Council planning portfolio holder Cr Rod Macdonald said some changes were welcome but consulting council first was “vital”.
The Government should provide more details and provide assurances that council would continue to have its say in applying the changes, he said.