Warrnambool City Council 24 January 2011 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 192

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1 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page CITY GROWTH OPERATIONS REPORT PURPOSE This report provides information on activities currently undertaken by the City Growth Division ( CGD ). 1. BUSINESS SUPPORT BRANCH a. Economic Indicators KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS - WARRNAMBOOL PERIOD LEVEL QUARTERLY ANNUAL % CHANGE % CHANGE POPULATION Estimated Resident Population As at 30 June ,374 n.a. 1.8% EMPLOYMENT Unemployment rate (%) * Sept Qtr Labour force (persons) Sept Qtr , % 3.1% BUILDING PERMITS By Value ($m) Sept Qtr % -79% By Value ($m) 12 mths ending Sept n.a. -41% PROPERTY MARKET Median house price ($) Dec Quarter , % 13.0% Median weekly rent ($) - 3 bed house Sept Quarter % 11.0% Median weekly rent ($) - 2 bed flat Sept Quarter % 14.0% BUSINESS ACTIVITY Gross Regional Product ($ millions) June 2009 $1,672 n.a. 8.9% * Unemployment rate changes are percentage point changes. Key Points: Adverse percentage changes in the value of Building Permits is due to the record value of Building Permits reported in the 2009/10 financial year ($216.7m) which included large construction projects such as the South West Healthcare Warrnambool Hospital redevelopment. VALUE OF BUILDING PERMITS, WARRNAMBOOL ($ m) Millions / / / / / / / / / /11 YTD Source: Building Commission

2 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 193 Unemployment rate of 5.2% reported for the September Quarter 2010 now sits below Regional Victoria (6.0%), Victoria (5.4%) and Australia (5.3%). 8.5 UNEMPLOYMENT RATE WARRNAMBOOL, Warrnambool % Unemployed 8 Regional Victoria Victoria Mar-06 Sep-06 Mar-07 Sep-07 Mar-08 Sep-08 Mar-09 Sep-09 Mar-10 Sep-10 Source: Small Area Labour Markets Research, DEEWR Warrnambool s unemployment rate of 5.2% is currently the lowest of all major regional cities in Victoria. UNEMPLOYMENT RATE, REGIONAL CITIES SEPTEMBER QUARTER % Warrnambool Geelong Wangaratta Wodonga Horsham Bendigo Swan Hill LaTrobe Benalla Ararat Shepparton Mildura Ballarat Source: Small Area Labour Markets Research, DEEWR Warrnambool s rental market continues to remain tight driving weekly median rentals for 2 bed flats and 3 br houses up by 14% and 11% respectively over the 12 months ending September For the September Quarter 2010, Warrnambool s median house price was $330,000. Over the 20 year period , Warrnambool s median house price increased by 245% which, together with Geelong, was higher than any other major regional city in Victoria.

3 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 194 MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE, 1989 VERSUS 2009 Thousands Greater Geelong (C) Warrnambool (C) Wodonga (RC) Ballarat (C) Greater Bendigo (C) Wangaratta (RC) Greater Shepparton (C) Mildura (RC) Source: Small Area Labour Markets Research, DEEWR b. Skilled Workforce Skilled migration activity remains very high, particularly in retention of skilled candidates via progression from temporary to permanent residency visas. The total number of primary visa candidates now registered with the Great South Coast: Growth through Skilled Migration program has reached 130 and when added with spouse and eligible dependents sees the regional caseload approaching 165. These numbers are reflected in the heavy influx of employer nominations and candidate applications for the permanent residency Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS 119 / 857) visa, with hospitality (cooks), health providers (registered nurses) and agricultural sector (agricultural technicians) predominant. Skilled vacancies were received from across the region for most types of engineers civil, mechanical, electrical and structural design, from Local Government and private employers. One Civil Engineer was engaged by Glenelg Shire Council, other referred candidates are still under consideration for the remaining vacancies. At the conclusion of the funded period the Great South Coast program had 30 skilled candidates in-progress. Twenty-five of these have now been transitioned to a permanent residency visa representing a 125% achievement of the total program outcome target of 20 within the first six months of the 12-month funded period. This bodes well for far exceeding overall target outcomes with each additional outcome attracting $1,500 per candidate. Education Partnerships The Business Support team and Project Manager Growth through Skills continues active engagement with a number of educational institutions including Deakin University, Greater Green Triangle University Department of Rural Health (GGTUDRH) and South West Health Care Dental Clinic to ensure that health and allied health students on work placement to Warrnambool are welcomed. Warrnambool City Council specifically targets these students with the primary aim that they will consider making Warrnambool their post-graduation home; thereby meeting some of our critical skill requirements within health and allied health professions. Two-hundred and eighty welcome packs have been issued in total with 104 year-to-date (to end December quarter).

4 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 195 The Business Support team, on behalf of Warrnambool City Council organised and delivered a welcome tour for the new Director of Orthopaedic Surgery at South West Healthcare, Dr Alasdair Sutherland and his wife Alison in November. Welcome packs included free passes to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village s Shipwrecked sound and laser show were provided for the whole family. The Project Manager Growth through Skills continues to represent Warrnambool City Council at meetings of the South West Local Learning and Employment Network (SWLLEN) as a member of the Board. SWLLEN seeks to develop strategies to prevent the disengagement of year olds from education or vocational training. Grants [Non-Recurrent Funding] 12 months to December 2010 [up to 13/12/2010] [Including comparative data for 2009] Whilst the actual number of recorded Grant Applications has remained reasonably constant over the past 2 years, the value of both Grant Applications and Successful Grants has reduced in the 12 months to December This is largely due to $4.8 mil State Government Grant applied for and received for the Warrnambool Entertainment Centre Redevelopment in Significant grants received in the 12 months to December 2010 were; Warrnambool Entertainment Centre [Federal Funding] $2,166,349 McGennans Car Park Redevelopment [Stage 2] $343,000 Jubilee Park Woodford Revitalisation $132,500 BMX Facility Development $60,000 Summary of Grant Applications-12 Months to December Successful 26 $4,755, % 27 $6,596, % Unsuccessful 5 $267, % 12 $1,237, % Pending % % Total No. 37 $5,186, % No. 39 $7,833, % Grant Applications [Non Recurrent Funds] $8,000, $7,000, $6,000,000 $5,000,000 $4,000, $3,000,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $ Successful Unsuccessful Pending Total

5 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 196 c. Business Engagement Business Workshops The workshop program for 2010 was the largest ever provided at Warrnambool City Council, with the following 15 workshops taking place from February to October. Date Topic Number Attending February 2010 Starting Your Business February 2010 Business Planning Basics February 2010 Marketing Basics March 2010 Green Business/Lean Business March 2010 Your Business Online, Optimising Your Potential April 2010 Marketing for Growth May 2010 Get Your Business Organised May 2010 Your Business, Closing, Selling, Moving On June 2010 Starting Your Business June 2010 Business Planning Basics June 2010 Marketing Basics August 2010 Your Business Online September 2010 Business Planning Basics October 2010 Marketing Basics & 11 October 2010 Taking Financial Control 5 TOTAL 129 Customer Service Awards 2010 was an exceptional year for Customer Service Award nominations. The very deserving overall winner for the year was local police officer Jacqui Eaton, and the recipient of the Highly Commended Award for Customer Service was David McGinness from South West Transit. The Awards were presented at the Powercor Warrnambool Business Excellence gala presentation night on October 8, Joe Piper, CEO of SW TAFE, major sponsor of the Customer Service category. Customer Service of the Year winner Jacqui Eaton receiving her Award from Joe Piper, CEO of SW TAFE. David McGinness receiving his certificate from Joe Piper.

6 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 197 Club Wednesday In 2010 the Club Wednesday networking function was very well patronised with upwards of 60 people in attendance at each event to listen to the guest speakers and network with like minded business people. Over the course of the year, function attendees enjoyed the hospitality of a number of the city s excellent venues; the Country Comfort on Raglan Parade, Flagstaff Hill, the Warrnambool Bowls Club and The Sebel Deep Blue. In 2011, the function will follow the same successful formula with a range of venues being showcased including, the Telstra Business Centre, Westpac & the Great Ocean Road Bowling Centre. Business people networking at the September Club Wednesday at The Sebel Deep Blue Business Awards 2010 The 2010 Powercor Warrnambool Business Excellence Awards gala presentation evening was held on Friday 8 October. Nominations were received from 47 businesses and 330 tickets to the event were sold out by mid September, an increase of 50 people on 2009 attendance. Judges were overwhelming in their praise of the extremely high standards of the businesses which nominated. Feedback from participants highlighted the need for the Tourism Accommodation & Tourism Golden Plate to be split into 2 separate categories, and also that businesses which enter the Franchise category be not able to nominate for any other categories. This feedback will be acted upon and changes made for the 2011 Awards. The initiative of the inaugural Hall of Fame Award was warmly received by the business community. The gala dinner Category Winners from Ryans Business of the Year, St John Of God Mentor In Residence Program In 2011 the Mentor in Residence program will be rebadged as Small Business Clinics to better reflect their purpose. The Business Support Team has arranged for bi-monthly Clinics to be provided on site at the Council offices in 2011, which will be free to participants. d. Economic Development Strategy Economic Development and Investment Strategy for Moyne/Warrnambool region has been completed and adopted by participating Councils. Stakeholder and business engagement process undertaken for the Strategy identified the following 6 strategic objectives for the city and the region: 1. Regional leadership and co-operation 2. Image and reputation of the region 3. Regional services and facilities 4. Regional industry development 5. Harnessing natural resources to grow the economy 6. Physical and digital infrastructure

7 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 198 These strategic objectives are supported by 24 regional projects for implementation. Implementation of the Strategy has commenced. e. Warrnambool Community Brand Following the development of the new Warrnambool Community Brand Wonderful Warrnambool, the following activities that promote Warrnambool have been undertaken: Branding of Council s bus Branding of FSH buses Development of a merchandise range for the FSH gift shop Partnering with business in joint promotional activities Use of the brand in Council s publications Promotional article in SouthWest Biz magazine Live Work Invest Feature Publication Council has contributed to the Standard s Live Work Invest publication that promotes the benefits of living in the region. 19,000 copies were distributed through Visitor Information Centres throughout Victoria with a main focus on Ballarat, Horsham, Bendigo, Ararat, Albury- Wodonga and Melbourne. Council s information promotes Warrnambool as a great place to live, work and do business in an aspirational manner. The use of the new brand by Council and other key organisations creates a co-ordinated approach to the marketing of Warrnambool. 2. TOURISM SERVICES BRANCH a) Regional Tourism Board (RTB) Tourism Services has attended each of the RTB Implementation Committee meetings to assist in progressing the development of the new RTB. This has been a long process and Warrnambool has been strong in advocating a real review of current tourism structures to reflect the new tourism industry environment that has developed in the online consumer purchasing world. A number of position papers were developed by Warrnambool City Council that consistently advocated for one regional tourism board for the region covering Geelong/Bellarine areas through to the South Australian border. In 2011 we will face the challenges of transitioning to the new tourism structures that will include the winding up of Shipwreck Coast Marketing and establishment of the new RTB. b) Foreshore Pavilion Tourism Services have responsibility for operating the Foreshore Pavilion facility. The upper restaurant area has been leased to a private operator who opened for trade 3 weeks before Christmas. The lower levels were handed to Tourism Services the week before Christmas, with the period leading up to Christmas used to begin to fitout the space. The facility delivers a range of tourism services that aims to continue the wider task of tourism services unit to influence guests travel plans so they do more activities and stay longer in Warrnambool

8 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 199 Pavilion Hub This facility operates as a Visitor Information Centre with the full range of booking and information services that the main VIC provides. This facility also provides a range of convenience services such as bike hire, fishing licences and bait, and take away drinks/ice creams. Souvenirs are also being sold using the stock from Flagstaff Hill Gift Store. Community Rooms The larger La Bella Function Room and smaller Breakwater Boardroom are managed by the VIC Coordinator and can be booked by community and private groups. The Warrnambool Yacht Club has first priority over the spaces through a Licence Agreement. The Pavilion Hub phones are interlinked with the FSH VIC and will improve our responsiveness to incoming calls. c) Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village State Tourism Award Submissions Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village received two awards at the 2010 Victorian Tourism Awards held in November. Winner Best New Tourism Product Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lodge Finalist Cultural and Heritage Tourism Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Media Coverage Through the past quarter Flagstaff Hill has continued to seek media opportunities that promote the site along with Warrnambool. Age Best Short Breaks Good Weekend Magazine 23rd October Lighthouse Lodge was listed in the best short breaks feature; Making Tracks TV Program Hosted TV crew and presenter for new show to air on Channel 9 15th January 2010; Friends of Flagstaff Hill Volunteer Association Flagstaff Hill continues to benefit from the outstanding efforts of our volunteer association. The Friends group have completed the in village catering for our summer programs, along with a range of operating support they provide. Conservation Volunteers The project to conduct an audit of the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village collection continues. Volunteers supported by staff have now photographed nearly 10,000 items as they move building to building recording and distinguishing between collection items and props. This project is ongoing with the next step being the uploading of the images and collected information into a Museum Collection systems that will store and allow for this information to be captured for the long term.

9 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 200 Flagstaff Hill Collection Significance Assessment Heritage Victoria assisted in funding an assessment of our collections. This report used much of the information collected through the audit process and compares our collections in a local, State, National and international context. This report will be used to better exhibit and explain the important items as well as gain increased opportunities for heritage program funding. It should be noted that there are a large range of items that are state heritage listed due to its links to historic wrecks, along with items of international significance such as the 68 pound cannon in the forecourt of Flagstaff Hill, and an item from the wreck Rayville (a ship that struck a sea mine in World War 2 off Cape Otway). This report also highlights the Loch Ard Peacock and the significance book and paper collection held at Flagstaff Hill. 35 th Year Celebrations Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village On the 14 December Flagstaff Hill celebrated its 35 th anniversary of welcoming guests to the city. In this period the site has been supported by many countless thousands of volunteer support, along with a range of dedicated staff. The site has welcomed 2.1 million visitors through the gates, along with securing a rich collection of the regions maritime and lifestyle s heritage. Staff and volunteers continue to work closely together to secure the next 35 years of operations at Flagstaff Hill. Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Navigating to 2017 Manager Tourism Services continues to seek opportunities to secure funding for future developments at Flagstaff Hill. The site has significant opportunities to become a state shipwreck museum linked to an education accommodation facility that will also allow Warrnambool to take advantage of announced new programs to fund transport costs for city students to come to regional areas as part of their school programs. Further meeting with Regional Development Victoria and Tourism Victoria are planned in early Since the price adjustment in April 2010 we have seen a decrease in business. The prior years had seen steady growth in attendances however the price increase appears to have a magnified impact on attendance numbers. The price increase also aligned to Parks Victoria offering free entry to their historic properties. Staff are examining the pricing structures given the new environment with a view to repricing our core entry fees. Flagstaff Hill Day 09/10 10/11 Var. 09/10 to % Experience 10/11 October 5,505 5, % November 4,089 3, % December 2,984 2, % YTD 12,578 10, % Shipwrecked 09/10 10/11 Var. 09/10 to % Attendances 10/11 October 2,795 2, % November 2,764 2, % December 3, % YTD 14, %

10 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 201 Retail Analysis per Guest Sales Spend 09/10 10/11 Var. 09/10 to 10/11 October $ % November $ % December $0.02 0% YTD $0.06-1% Visitor Information Services WVIC 09/10 Walk In 10/11 Walk In % Var. 09/10 Bookings 09/10 $ Value 10/11 Bookings 10/11 $ Value October ,362-1% 184 $47, $35,190 November ,324 0% 223 $45, $28,229 December ,877-6% 234 $48, $36,459 YTD 42,561 41,563-2% 1119 $246, $187,779 % Bookings through the VIC have decreased in value in 10/11. The web site is being continually monitored to ensure bookings are captured for Warrnambool. Holiday Parks Holiday Parks have been preparing for the peak summer season. Surfside Holiday Park Development Plan was completed through the off season to provide Council with guidance on the future developments within the parks. This plan has not been adopted by council as since its development there have been two major updates to state government policy that impact on Surfside. CFA Updated Fire Regulations CFA have introduced a range of new requirements for holiday parks across the state. M- TS attended an information session in October that detailed these requirements. This has a significant impact on the Surfside Holiday park operations that will require the parks layout to be reviewed. The main initiative that impacts on Surfside is the updated requirements for 2m separation between all structures, including a 1.2m gap between tents/annex guide ropes. This potentially will reduce the number of sites that are available to be offered at Surfside. The Surfside Parks were surveyed before Christmas to allow us to identify the areas effected by the new requirements. Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Equity In Access Coastal Holiday Parks The government released a range of new policy documents for Crown Land Coastal Parks (like Surfside). This requires Surfside to ensure its booking policies meet the minimum requirements from DSE, introduce Fire Systems and ensure peak season policies provide at least 10% of new users each year. These requirements have less impacts than the new CFA requirements but will still need to be accounted for in our future plans. Wotif.com and Online Sales Surfside Holiday Parks computer systems will be upgraded in February to allow for increased use of online sales and distribution systems. This will allow Surfside products to go onto sites immediate availability sites like Wotif.com.

11 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 202 These systems will also be incorporated into the new booking policy that will allow for increased use of online sales systems to manage peak season bookings. A further report on summer operations will be released in March after the peak season. 3. CITY STRATEGY & DEVELOPMENT a) Permits/Trends The following graph shows the permit activity for the past 4 months for Warrnambool City Council. The graph also shows comparatively how WCC compares to all regional councils within Victoria. The number of applications received has increased by 14% compared to the same time last year. Although the number of applications have increased, the determination rate (decisions made) have also increased by 15%. Apps Rec'd Permits Issued Regional Ave Apps Rec'd Regional Ave Permits Issued No. of Applications Sep 10 Oct 10 Nov 10 Dec 10 Month

12 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 203 b) Quarterly Application Trends Q3 Jul, Aug & Sep 2010 Q4 Oct, Nov & Dec 2010 Apps Received Compared to Same Period Last Year Apps Determined Compared to Same Period Last Year Apps in Progress Development Plans Determined c) Consultation Meetings The following consultation meetings were held during the reporting period, these meetings involved Council Officers, objectors and permit applicants:- App No Site Address Proposal Date Location P Ilex Avenue Warrnambool P Timor Street Warrnambool Removal of Restrictive Covenant B Proposed construction of a six (6) residential units with basement parking 5 Oct 2010 Civic Centre 25 Liebig St 9 Nov 2010 On-site d) Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal ( VCAT ) VCAT Appeals App No Site Address VCAT Decision Date P Lava Street No permit to issue. 18/11/10 P Aberline Road Appeal withdrawn. 14/12/10 P Bryant Street Pending Pending e) Subdivision Services The following graph shows the subdivision activity for the past 4 months for Warrnambool City Council. Seventy-nine (79) applications for certifications under the Subdivision Act were received in 2010 which almost doubled the fourty-eight (48) applications received in 2009.

13 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 204 Applications Received Quarter Statistics Certifications Issued (approved in principle) Statement of Compliance Issued (application completed) No Sep 20 Oct 10 Nov 10 Dec 10 Quarter f) Heritage Advisory Services List of Consultations undertaken Property Address Issues 101 Drummond Street, Dennington Upgrade of Shamrock Hotel Koroit Street, Warrnambool Overall upgrade of building and possibility of double storey extension for office space. 236 Koroit Street, Warrnambool Construction of a garage in association with existing dwelling. 25 Manifold Street, Warrnambool Proposed alterations to the Presbyterian Church. 2 Nelson Street, Warrnambool Two (2) lot subdivision. 46 Banyan Street, Warrnambool Two (2) storey extension to existing dwelling, demolition of garage and construction of four (4) storey building including units and basement car parking. 42 Kepler Street, Warrnambool Re-painting of exterior of building. 227 Koroit Street, Warrnambool Installation of solar panels. 325 Timor Street, Warrnambool Possible change of use and redevelopment for Rotary House. 261 Koroit Street, Warrnambool Advice on conservation 56 Kepler Street, Warrnambool Possible construction of retail and residential building. 114 Timor Street, Warrnambool Rear extension & partial demolition Grafton Road, Warrnambool Proposed works at Warrnambool Racecourse/Grandstand. 82 Bridge Road, Warrnambool Part demolition of rear building. 73 Liebig Street, Warrnambool Re-painting of exterior of building.

14 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 205 g) Section 29A Demolition Requests The demolition requests for the same period last year were 16 compared to 17 in the table below: Lodged Site Address Decision 3/08/ Barkly Street Approved 13/08/ Kerr Street Requires planning permit (Heritage Overlay) 18/08/ Rooneys Road Approved 18/08/ Rooneys Road Approved 30/08/ Crawley Street Approved 30/08/ Kepler Street Requires planning permit and has been issued 31/08/ Timor Street Approved 9/09/ Merri Street Approved 20/09/ Laverock Grove Approved 20/09/ Laverock Grove Approved 5/10/ Jamieson Street Requires planning permit (Heritage Overlay) 19/10/2010 1/80 Pertobe Road Approved 29/10/ Coulstock Street Approved 17/11/ Barkly Street Approved 24/11/2010 1/ Liebig Street Approved 1/12/ Monash Avenue Approved 3/12/ Queens Road Approved h) Planning Enforcement Register The number of outstanding enforcement cases over the past 12 months has been reduced from 40 to 11. The outstanding cases are listed below: Lodged Non Compliance Status 12/10/2007 Condition Non Compliance Pending 6/11/2008 Works without Permit Pending 2/11/2009 Condition Non Compliance Pending 18/11/2009 Condition Non Compliance Pending 11/01/2010 Use Operating without Required Permit Pending 16/02/2010 Use Operating without Required Permit Pending 14/04/2010 Condition Non Compliance Pending 3/06/2010 Breach of Condition(s) Pending 6/01/2011 Works without Permit Pending 7/01/2011 Use Operating without Required Permit Pending 7/01/2011 Works without Permit Pending 26/10/2010 Condition Non Compliance Completed 3/11/2010 Breach of Condition(s) Completed

15 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 206 i) Planning Certificates Requests and Trends Graph The level of planning certificates issued is a measure of property sales activity in the municipality. The planning certificate is used to form part of the contract of sale, although the certificate may be requested in advance of a property sale Certificates Issued - Month Sep Oct Nov Dec j) Planning Projects and Strategies CITY STRATEGY PLANNING PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES Project Title Description % Completed North Merri Growth Area Structure Plan & North Merri River Development Contributions Plan Prepare a Structure Plan and Development Contribution Plan (DCP) for implementation via a Planning Scheme Amendment. Next Milestone 90 Adopt Structure Plan and DCP for exhibition and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment. Milestone Completion January & February 2011 Hopkins/Coastal Structure Plan Prepare and adopt structure plan for implementation via a Planning Scheme Amendment 80 Update Structure Plan May 2011 Industrial Land Review Prepare and adopt an Industrial land supply strategy for Warrnambool for implementation via a Planning Scheme Amendment. 90 Adopt Industrial Land Use Review for exhibition and exhibit Planning Scheme amendment. February 2011 St James Park Project Develop a Master Plan for St James Park 100 Completed. Implementation will be ongoing.

16 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 207 CITY STRATEGY PLANNING PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES Project Title Description % Completed Moyne/Warrnambool Rural Housing Settlement Strategy Strategy in conjunction with Moyne Shire to manage issues relating to smaller rural settlements. Next Milestone 80 Adoption March 2011 Milestone Completion Heritage Precinct Guidelines Prepare assessment guidelines and incorporate into the Planning Scheme. Intended to run concurrently with Heritage Gap Study Amendment. 90 Consideration by Panel Feb 2011 City Centre Structure Plan Prepare a Structure Plan for the City Centre. 70 Community Consultation and adoption of a draft for exhibition. May 2011 Land suitability Framework Joint technical project for relating to land capability and biodiversity which in inform Council on Farming Zone matters undertaken in conjunction with Corangamite Shire. 50 Community consultation process to be developed. March 2011 Heritage Strategy In house project to guide Council operations in all aspects of heritage including planning controls, operations and place/object management. Will be a requirement for future state heritage funding. 30 Formation of internal working group to finalise preparation in accordance with Heritage Victoria s standard framework. July 2011 Warrnambool Coastal Landscape Review Review and update planning controls for coastal land in the municipality and update the planning scheme to reflect directions of the State s Coastal Spaces Landscape study and improvements to the Logans Beach provisions 50 Public exhibition June 2011 Open Space Strategy Prepare Open Space strategy inclusive of an analysis of active, passive open space and recreation needs in Warrnambool. 20 Council update on project. April 2011

17 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 208 j. Environment Projects and Strategies CITY STRATEGY ENVIRONMENT PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES Project Title Description % Completed Coastal Management Plan and Vegetation Management Plan Develop a coastal management and vegetation management actions and guidelines to direct management for the next ten years Next Milestone 30 Develop vision, strategic direction and actions and present to Council and community. Milestone Completion April 2011 Sustainable Transport Strategy Develop a Walking and Cycling Plan for Warrnambool to improve sustainable transport opportunities and facilities to improve general fitness and social well-being within the community. 100 Completed implementation will be ongoing. Sustain the BOOL To develop a whole of community initiative to make Warrnambool a sustainable city. 75 Smart Living Workshops to be continued. Green roof to be installed. Other initiatives ongoing. Ongoing Making a Difference for the Merri A working group established to improve the integrated catchment management and health of the Merri River. On ground initiative implemented. Funding received to employ a temporary facilitator has role has commenced 75 Develop a plan to implement on-ground actions on the Merri River. Lodge applications for funding Ongoing Pest Plant and Animal Program (PPAP) Develop an annual pest plant and animal program, identifying threats and priorities to the natural environment in Warrnambool. 75 Present draft document to working group. Present draft document to Council. Oct 2010 Green Purchasing Improve green purchasing across Council to purchases more products which have less environmental impact. 80 Staff training on going, develop tracking software to improve green expenditure and reporting. April 2011 Green Environment Team To develop an internal committee to broaden across departments to implement environmental initiatives in everyday work practices. 100 Present the Green Travel Plan for approval and implement actions. April 2011

18 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 209 CITY STRATEGY ENVIRONMENT PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES Project Title Description % Completed Demonstrable Renewable Energy Project Council install solar panels on the Civic Centre/Library to educate the community on solar technology. Solar Bulk Buy complete Next Milestone 80 Engage Wind Turbine manufacturer Install turbine. The Solar bulk buy resulted in over 400 people attending workshops, 150 participants, over $1,000,000 invested in renewable energy and a total saving of $100,000 on participants savings (cumulative) each year. Milestone Completion April 2011 Smart Living Neighbourhoods Funding approved for four retrofitted demonstration houses for sustainable design, buildings and living in partnership with the South West Sustainability Partnership 75 Demonstration workshops to be delivered in partnership with the Smart Living Workshop Series as part of the Sustain the Bool program Dec 2011 Carbon Accounting Planet Footprint Investigate data capturing and carbon accounting for all of Council s facilities. Majority of data now collected 95 Data to be used in a Carbon Reduction Plan for Council and Annual report (subject to funding). June 2011 Direct Seeding Conduct direct seed trials to determine future use of such methods for revegetation. Brierly Park and Victoria Park are complete. 100 Completed. Brierly, Victoria Park and Albert Park will be monitored into the future. Sustain the Bool Sustainable Living Expo 8 January 2011 Council contributed to facilitating the Warrnambool Standard Sustainable Living Expo. This years event was a successful day and featured Rob Gell, who in addition to his profile as TV weatherman is a trained geomorphologist. An estimated 1,000 people attended the Expo. Guest presenter Rob Gell Stalls at the Expo

19 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 210 Coastal Management Plan and Vegetation Management Plan A productive and well attended community consultation discussed coastal management issues facing Warrnambool, providing local knowledge and assistance to the development of the plan. Many clubs and organisations had the opportunity to have input into the effective management of the coast including coastal vegetation. The project is 30% complete. Community consultation 17 November 2010 Solar Bulk Buy The solar bulk buy information sessions proved popular. Over 150 people signed up to the programme which significantly reduces household energy bills. Community information night 14 October 2010

20 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 211 k) Graphical Information System (GIS) Projects and strategies CITY STRATEGY GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES Project Title Description % Completed Next Milestone Review of council GIS software packages Assess our current GIS software and licensing against competing products. 45 Present background work to GIS Project Group Milestone Completio n Feb 2010 Review the GIS Strategy Assess and review the existing GIS Strategy and Update as required 40 Present recommendations GIS Project Group to March 2010 Arial photography Ensure Arial photography is maintain and updated in accordance with GIS Strategy Arial photography available on Latitude system. Graphical Information Systems (GIS) are utilized across Council, but are particularly important in land use planning and social planning. GIS is in effect layers of data which when ordered effectively provide maps of specific circumstances. Currently Council is reviewing its GIS strategy and it has a cross-functional team working in-house on this review. m) Planning Scheme Amendments Planning Scheme Amendment Register Amendment Details Status Next Milestone C52 C61 Project Title Residential Correction Rezone Location Swinton Street, Warrnambool Proponent Comments Project Title Location Proponent Comments WCC for Hoffman Adopted Ministerial Approval Milestone Target Date February % % Completion Rezoning of land formerly within buffer area of Braithwaite St landfill. The amendment was adopted by Council on 21 June 2010 and is currently waiting on a final decision from the Minister for Planning. North East - Cell D Rezoning Aberline & Dales Road Warrnambool WCC Part 1 Gazetted Part 2 to be adopted TBC 80% Amendment split to reflect landowners who have entered into S173 agreements for development contribution. Part 1 gazetted on 1 April Extension of time provided for Part 2 to enable ongoing negotiations with those landowners. Negotiations continuing.

21 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 212 Planning Scheme Amendment Register Amendment Details Status Next Milestone C66 Project Nth Dennington Title C68 C69 SP & DCP Implementation Location Nth Dennington Growth Corridor Proponent WCC Part 1 Approved Part 2 Adopted Part 3 further work Submit for approval Resolution of buffer Milestone Target Date Dec 10 Dec 10 % Completion 100% Comments Implementation of the suite of policy and planning directions for the North of Dennington including rezoning, Developer contributions, open space provision, environmental and design controls and the necessary acquisition plans. Council resolved to split amendment sending part 1 (school site) to Minister for approval, part 2 (remainder) to Panel. Panel held end June Following the recommendations of the Panel the amendment was further split (part 3) to allow for the consideration of the Fonterra buffer. Work is continuing on revising the amendment and DCP as per Panel recommendations. Landowner meeting recently undertaken. Project Title Heritage Gap Study 3A - Location Proponent Precincts Design Guidelines Various WCC & Submissions received 80% 70% Panel Hearing February % Comments Amendment to implement the Heritage Gap Study Precincts (3a) permanently following the interim control by the Minister under C50. The amendment also included the provision of guidelines for design and development within precincts. Exhibition commenced 1 July September Submissions received. Panel appointed and hearing to be held in Warrnambool on 1 st to 3 rd February Project Title North Merri Structure Plan and DCP Location North of Merri River Growth Corridor Proponent Various Authorisation Received Exhibition February % Comments Authorisation to exhibit has been received. Exhibition to commence in February C70 C72 Project Title Location Proponent Gateway Precinct Gateway Plaza & Environs AMP Capital Request received Request Authorisation TBC 20% Comments Application Received to rezone a further portion of land abutting existing Gateway Plaza to Business 1 Zone, and to introduce a scheduled floor space requirement to provide for expansion of the current shopping centre. Minister for Planning released the Advisory Committee Report on 23 September Proponent has been asked to update their requirements based on Minister s decision on Advisory Committee. Project Title Industrial Land Location Proponent Comments Study West Warrnambool and Horne Road Authorisation Received Exhibition February/March 2011 WCC PDP process has ended. Preparation of the planning scheme amendment commenced to implement Stage 1 of the Industrial Land Use Review, authorisation received. Amendment to be exhibited February/March %

22 Agenda for Ordinary Meeting Page 213 Planning Scheme Amendment Register Amendment Details Status Next Milestone C73 C75 C76 C77 Project Title Heritage Gap Study 3B Individual Places Location Various Proponent WCC Preparation Request Authorisation Milestone Target Date TBC 35% % Completion Comments Amendment to apply the Heritage Overlay to individual places identified in the Heritage Gap Study Stage 3B. A final report was received end of June Awaiting receipt of C68 Panel (precincts) before finalisation for exhibition. Project Title Hopkins Point Road growth area (coastal) Location Hopkins Point Road (south side) Proponent Comments Request received Request Authorisation CPG Final assessment of the amendment documents and structure plan update occurring prior to request for authorisation. Proponents are involved in discussions with officers regarding finalising the documentation. Project Title Hopkins Point Road growth area (north ) Location Hopkins Point Road (north side) Proponent CPG Comments Request received Request Authorisation 15% 15% Final assessment of the amendment documents and structure plan update occurring prior to request for authorisation. Proponents are involved in discussions with officers regarding finalising the documentation. Project Title North East Growth Area Cell C (remainder) Location Aberline Road/Wangoom Road Proponent SMEC Urban Comments Request received Request Authorisation 15% Final assessment of the amendment documents as submitted occurring prior to request for authorisation. RECOMMENDATION That this report be received.