Following on from recommendations by the Independent Panel and Advisory Committee, Manningham Council has adopted Amendment C101 to the Manningham Planning Scheme.

This now awaits the approval of the Minister for Planning, the Hon. Matthew Guy, to enable the Eastern Golf Course site to be redeveloped.

Consulting firm Urbis requested the planning control changes on behalf of Mirvac in January 2013.

A proposed Development Plan was also submitted to show how the entire site would be developed.

Following on from the public submission period, Council requested the Minister for Planning appoint a joint Independent Panel and Advisory Committee (PAC) to consider the submissions received in relation to the Amendment and proposed Development Plan.

The PAC report recommended that with some minor changes, Amendment C101 is appropriate and reflects the importance of the site to accommodate new residential development.

Mirvac is proposing that the site be developed with between 790 and 1005 different types of homes, with just over 20 per cent of the site set aside for public open space.

The Development Plan retains significant native vegetation and provides for the protection of ‘Tullamore’, the stables and three heritage trees.

Manningham Mayor Cr Jim Grivokostopoulos said the Development Plan for the Eastern Golf Course also provides pedestrian and cycling paths as well as urban design qualities.

“Manningham Council recognises the significance of the Eastern Golf Course to the City and has been working hard to ensure the right balance between development and the community.”

“The proposed Development Plan incorporates features that promote energy efficiency, water conservation and improved storm water quality,” Cr Grivokostopoulos said.