By Matthew Sims
Spotswood residents are now able to have their say on proposed changes to heritage overlays.
Following on from a heritage review in March 2022, which identified several areas of significance in Spotswood, Amendment C137 proposes to implement the findings of the Spotswood Activity Centre Structure Plan Heritage Review by introducing new and revised heritage overlays and adding about 200 propertiess into the Hobsons Bay Planning Scheme.
Areas highlighted are a mix of historic industrial, commercial and civic buildings, as well as residential precincts, including certain properties in Melbourne Road, Hudsons Road, Reed Street, Hall Street, Bernard Street, Craig Street and Robb Street.
Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said Spotswood’s buildings tell a wide and diverse part of Melbourne’s and Hobsons Bay’s story.
“Whether they are industrial, commercial or residential buildings, they are a significant part of our history so it’s important we protect them while also making sure we hear from local residents,” Cr Briffa said.
“Residents can check if their property falls within the proposed revised or new heritage overlay areas, and there is plenty of opportunity to speak to council officers about what it would mean to them.”
A heritage overlay is a tool in a council’s planning scheme which seeks to protect places of heritage significance and ensure new development does not adversely affect their significance.
A planning permit for works or development is generally required for places within a heritage overlay.
Information sessions will also be held for residents, with council officers able to answer questions at Hudsons Road near Spotswood IGA on Saturday, March 4 from 10am to 11am and at Spotswood Community House at 598 Melbourne Road on Monday, March 6 from 11am to noon.
Public consultation on the proposed amendment is open until Thursday, April 6.
Hobsons Bay council will then consider submissions and decides if a Planning Panel needs to be convened.
Details: participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/amendment-c137
