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Cluster, Connect and Consolidate

The Mount Alexander Shire Council, using a growth rate of 1.4 per cent, predicts that the population of the Shire will increase by 5,200 people to reach 21,400 by 2021. This is a much faster growth rate than one extrapolated purely from census data, however it takes into account State Government policy promoting growth in provincial Victoria, and the positive impact of upgraded 'Fast Rail' links to Melbourne. The duplication of the Calder Highway is also expected to reduce travel time to Melbourne, making Mount Alexander a more attractive place to live.

Council has created a new Sustainable Development unit, which brings the strategic and land use planning team, the environment team and the building team together under one umbrella. The new unit will be able to provide an integrated service to the community and better address expected growth.

Council, in its Urban Living Strategy, has now adopted a growth management model called 'Cluster, Connect and Consolidate'. The main components of this model are to:

• build on the Shire's existing settlement pattern
• provide for both residential growth and urban consolidation in Castlemaine
• contain residential development within the township boundaries at Maldon
• plan for the longer term growth of the Calder Highway towns of Harcourt, Taradale, and Elphinstone
• limit the growth of smaller settlements
• improve transport and access connections between Castlemaine and outlying towns.

The policy provides a clear direction for future growth and development, while protecting assets that make the Shire an attractive living, working and visitor environment.

Council's Manager Sustainable Development, Fiona McMahon, said the plan aims to encourage new residents to move into established towns, where services are readily available, and at the same time protect the native bushland and unique landscapes which are one of the Shires assets.

"Cluster, Connect and Consolidate will encourage new residents to consider our largest town centre, Castlemaine as it is well set up with transport, shops and services," Fiona McMahon said. "Other town centres will also be attractive options, to save costs on extending services to currently unserviced areas, and to avoid the visual impact of residential sprawl.

"The new Calder Highway duplication will be ideal for business growth, in particular the industrial sector."

The Cluster Connect and Consolidate policy has been adopted by Council and is in the process of being included in the planning scheme.

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