Development in Spring Creek valley is an issue that has been strongly contested by the community since 2008 and this week representatives from nine local community groups met with councilors to present their vision for the new precinct. The plan can be viewed at www.3228ra.org

The groups believe their plan provides an acceptable balance between those wanting development and those wanting no development and has based the plan on the same 5 core values: Places for People, the Natural Environment, the Built Environment, Services and Infrastructure and A Local Economy, as the Draft plan produced by council.

The plan will assist the Surf Coast Shire to lead in environmental stewardship and sustainability by considerably reducing impacts on wildlife and at the same time enhancing liveability. With climate change and mass species extinction in mind this is a plan for people and nature. Important features include the reinforcing of a permanent town boundary to the west with development that is consistent with the low density residential developments to the north and south east; substantial wildlife corridors that retain remnant vegetation; maintaining traffic flow along the Great Ocean Road by eliminating an exit/entry; creation of a community food, cultural and health precinct; safe movement from the proposed Christian College campus through the precinct via an extensive, off road, shared pathway network.

As a community we have a responsibility to ensure that our actions have as little impact on the environment as possible so that future generations can continue to enjoy what many now take for granted.

Contributing community groups: 3228 Residents Association, SCEG, SANE, Plastic Bag Torquay, Danawa Community Garden, Surfrider Foundation, Jan Juc Coast Action Group, Torquay Coast Action, Surf Coast Wildlife Shelters Group