An independent panel will consider public
submissions on a proposed planning overlay aimed at reducing risks to public
safety and damage to properties that may be affected by future sea level rise.
Amendment C394 – Proposed Coastal Inundation
Overlay was exhibited by the City of Greater Geelong between 11 July and 12
August this year.
It would cover 1726 properties on the Bellarine
Peninsula and around Corio Bay that have been identified as at risk of flooding
in the event of a 0.8-metre climate change-induced sea level rise plus a major
storm surge.
The proposed overlay is in line with the state
government’s policy of planning for a 0.8m sea level rise by 2100.
There were 43 submissions during the exhibition
period, of which 39 were objections.
Key issues raised included potential impact on
property values, insurance costs, floor levels and building heights, and
timeline of sea level rise projections. There were also requests to remove
specific properties from the proposed overlay.
City of Greater Geelong staff have considered and
responded to each of the submissions, recommending two minor changes requested
by the Department of Land Water and Planning.
Council has voted
to refer all submissions to an independent panel appointed by the Minister for
Planning. All submitters will be invited to appear before the panel in person
to present their submission.
The panel will then provide a recommendation to
council before it makes a final decision.
Councillor Stephanie Asher - Mayor
Asking an independent panel to hear submissions on
this proposed overlay will give us an additional expert view of the matter and
allow us to make the most informed decision for our community.
Councillor Trent Sullivan,
Deputy Chair, Rural and Coastal portfolio
The state government requires all councils to plan
for sea rises, so we are acting in line with our requirements.
We acknowledge the submissions made and we’ll await
the independent panel’s recommendations with interest.