Rural Land Use Strategy

Summary and scope

It is anticipated that in undertaking this project Mount Alexander Shire will achieve the following outcomes: • Establish a clear strategic framework vision and set of objectives for our Shire’s rural areas. • Stronger protection for identified rural regions capable of productive farming. • Create a robust definition of what viable agricultural land is. • Generate supporting documentation to direct development to appropriate areas with reference to land capability, lots sizes and agricultural productivity. • Create an informed decision-making matrix on which to base planning decisions pertaining to rural living and rural land use applications. • Create sound recommendations as to what changes should be made to the existing rural zones in the municipality through a future planning scheme amendment, based on the review of rural zones. • Protect and enhance natural and cultural values. • Advise on the observed impact of climate change in rural areas and how these impacts might influence the application of rural planning provisions. • Deliver strategic recommendations for reducing land use conflicts between productive farming land and rural living • Enabling appropriate tourism and agricultural business-related activities in suitable rural areas.