Table of Contents - Nillumbik Shire Council

Hurstbridge Township StrategyNillumbik Shire CouncilAdopted by council march 2000Published March 2002

Prepared byEnvironment and Cultural Planning SectionNillumbik Shire Councilin association withDavid McCubbin – Landscape Architect,Doug Frood – Pathways Experiences,John Chivers and Associates P/L andKLM Gerner Consulting Group.

Hurstbridge Township StrategyExecutive SummaryNillumbik Shire Council adopted the Hurstbridge Township Strategy on 21 March 2000.This Strategy has been revised in accordance with the Council’s resolutions.IntroductionThe Hurstbridge Township Strategy is an integrated land use strategy for the future use,conservation and development of the township over the next 10 to 20 years. The Strategydocuments the preferred form of use, conservation and development of land that shouldtake place in Hurstbridge. The Strategy also details environmental managementinitiatives, strategies for economic and commercial development and infrastructuremaintenance. The Strategy details actions to achieve the strategies associated with theseissues.Planning Policy ContextThe Strategy has been prepared within the context established by State Planning Policy,the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement and the Nillumbik Council Plan. TheStrategy also has regard to other major planning policies affecting Hurstbridge.The Strategy will provide a framework for the planning and delivery of capital works in thetownship area, landscape and urban design initiatives and environmental works projects.The land use elements of the Strategy will also be capable of implementation through theNillumbik Planning Scheme. This includes provisions in the Municipal StrategicStatement, local policies and zones and overlays.Community Consultation ProcessCommunity input has played an integral role in the development of this Strategy. Publicconsultation has enabled the contribution of local expertise and knowledge in helping towork through the situation analysis, issues identification and strategy formulation phases.The main aim of the consultation process has been to establish an interactive processbetween local residents and Council to facilitate a co-operative approach to the Strategyand its implementation.Key actions undertaken as part of the consultation process included the TownshipCharrette, which was held in July 1999, to help identify planning issues and to developactions that could be implemented to address these issues. Following this exercise, aquestionnaire was sent to households in the study area focussing on the main issues raisedat the Charrette, to gain a broader perspective on those issues that appear to be of mostconcern to the Hurstbridge community.The draft Hurstbridge Township Strategy was placed on public exhibition for seven weeksduring December 1999 and January 2000. Approximately 213 submissions were receivedduring the exhibition process.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002i

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTownship ProfileSettlement and HousingExisting settlement is clearly defined with a hard urban edge separating the township fromrural land and conservation uses. Hurstbridge has retained a ‘rural village’ atmospheregenerally defined by the confined, concentrated activity areas and its small scale.Residential allotments are generally large, with detached dwellings on single lots thepredominant form of housing in the Hurstbridge area.There are few vacant allotments within the township boundaries, and limited opportunityfor any further residential growth in the rural areas. The population of Hurstbridge isincreasing, although at a slower rate in comparison to the wider municipality. There is ahigh proportion of traditional nuclear families in the area.EnvironmentHurstbridge is characterised by undulating topography with existing development largelyconfined by the four main ridgelines adjacent to the town centre. There are significantareas of native vegetation located adjacent to the township. Even so, much of the nativevegetation has been modified and is under threat from weed invasion and poor landmanagement practices.Significant areas of faunal habitat occur. There is pressure from some landowners,however, to allow development of some areas of high faunal and habitat significance withinthe study area. The retention of the creek corridors and adjoining open space areas are avaluable environmental feature of the township and also an important habitat link.Hurstbridge has retained a ‘rustic’ feel, with the built form in association with the qualitiesof the surrounding vegetation, geology and topography combining to give Hurstbridge aparticular rural character and strong sense of place.Rural Land UseThe existing subdivisional pattern of rural land is largely the result of controls introducedin 1971 to prevent further residential subdivision and to retain conservation and landscapevalues of the area and Shire as a whole. Rural land around Hurstbridge has generally beendeveloped for rural-living purposes, although some small scale agricultural enterprises areestablishing in the Hurstbridge area.Economic DevelopmentThe township centre’s primary function is as a service centre to the local community with acomplementary tourism function. There are opportunities for further economicdevelopment along Main Road, with a number of vacant allotments in the township centre.Approximately one-third of retail floor space within the township centre is primarily aimedat visitor and tourist needs, with tourism presenting itself as an environmentallysustainable option for continued and further economic growth of the township.InfrastructureThe Hurstbridge community is largely reliant on its road network, with high car ownership.The railway line, however provides an important service for people without access to cars.The local road network feeds into Heidelberg-Kinglake Road in the township centre,feeding large volumes of through traffic through the township.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002ii

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe layout of car parking in the town centre is inefficient and adds to the conflict of trafficand pedestrian movement in the township centreWater, sewerage and drainage services are generally adequate for the existing population,however these services are not designed to allow significant expansion of the town. Thereis no reticulated gas service in the town.For a town of Hurstbridge’s size, there are limited youth and child care facilities. The totalamount of open space comprises approximately 30 hectares, including a range of passiveand active open space areas, however improvement to provision and location of publicfacilities is required to improve the utilisation of public land.Community Consultation OutcomesCommunity consultation has played a key role in the preparation of this Strategy.Settlement and HousingThis component of the Strategy was the most contentious and attracted considerableinterest in relation to all issues contained within the Strategy. It is noted, however, thatthe issue was largely contentious due to the impact further development may have on thenatural environment.• Approximately 80% of submissions made by residents are not in favour of any furtherresidential growth;• Significant growth is strongly rejected; and• If there was to be any new development then it should have consideration toenvironmental qualities and constraints, as well as enhancing the character of thearea.EnvironmentIssues relating to the protection of the environment also attracted considerable interest.The local community supports protection of the natural and built environment, with a largenumber of respondents submitting that more must be done to protect and enhanceenvironmental values. Some key actions identified include:• More controls to restrict land clearing and native vegetation removal;• More funding is required to aid weed control and revegetation programs, particularlyalong the creeks and other waterways; and• More education programs need to be initiated by Council and other groups, toeducate landowners about proper land management, weed control, planting, pestcontrol, waterway health etc.With regard to the built environment:• New development should have regard to the existing streetscape and neighbourhoodcharacter;• Old historic buildings should be retained and protected to maintain and enhance therustic character of Hurstbridge, particularly along Main Road; and• Support for the introduction of design guidelines for new development along MainRoad.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002iii

Hurstbridge Township StrategyRural Land UseFew comments were received in relation to rural land use, with most comments generatingsupport for the continuance of non-urban breaks between settlements and to improve landmanagement practices.Economic DevelopmentThere has been an emphasis from many sections of the community to nurture andencourage greater tourism in the area. Although large sections of the community are infavour of promoting tourism, it is felt that this should not be to the detriment of the town’scurrent service role to the local community, nor should it have a detrimental impact on theenvironment. Improvement to retail activity in the township is also supported.InfrastructureSubmissions to the Strategy have primarily focussed on the issues of the Main RoadConcept Plan, Monash Bridge, by-pass road options and public open space. Mostrespondents were generally in favour of the concept plans, with the main exception beingthe narrowing of Main Road. Monash Bridge proved a more contentious issue, with justover half of those making a submission relating to the bridge in favour of a new two-lanebridge.Support was given to the provision of more public facilities and amenities on public land.There was also strong support for the provision of youth and childcare facilities in thetownship centre.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002iv

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTownship StrategySettlement and HousingWith very little vacant residential land in the Hurstbridge Township, any growth inpopulation and housing could only be achieved via intensification of existing townshipallotments (i.e. infill and higher density) or rezoning land on the edges of the currenttownship to allow further residential development.Two fundamental principles guided debate in this area: firstly that the current character ofthe Hurstbridge township must be protected and, secondly, that the natural environmentmust be protected.Any significant intensification of existing township allotments was rejected in terms of itsdetrimental impact on the character of Hurstbridge.A detailed analysis of all areas abutting the existing township identified a small number ofsites that may potentially be considered for residential development via rezoning to theTownship Zone.Strong arguments were mounted both in favour and against any further growth inpopulation and housing through the rezoning of more land from Environmental Rural toTownship Zone.Arguments against any expansion of the Hurstbridge township included:• Protection of the Green Wedge;• Further urban expansion would threaten environmental values;• Better preservation of conservation and environment values;• Any rezonings at all would render it impossible to manage any future demands forfurther rezonings;• Supposed economic and social benefits with increased population not demonstratedfrom first principles; and• Tourism/visitor market could support commercial centre growth.Arguments advanced in favour of expansion of the township included:• Demand for housing opportunities in Hurstbridge can’t presently be satisfied;• Further services will be lost without population growth, following on from closure ofthe high school, petrol station and bank;• There may be some capacity for further growth in the township without underminingamenity and environment values;• Increased population will result in increased local employment opportunitiesparticularly in retail trade; and• Additional development is largely ‘infill’ development near existing areas.The Strategy investigated nine potential areas that could possibly satisfy amenity andconservation/environment criteria for residential use. The Strategy concludes that of thesenine areas only two are suitable for residential development and even then further workwould be required to establish the extent of development potential. Two other areas havebeen identified as having limited development potential due to infrastructure and/orenvironmental issues and, similarly, further work would be required to establish the extentNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002v

Hurstbridge Township Strategyof development potential. The other five areas investigated were not considered suitable toprovide for further township residential development.The development assessment process for the areas identified as suitable for residentialdevelopment is outlined in the Strategy. This includes provisions for a development planfor requiring detailed site assessment and design response. The density of residentialdevelopment should be in accordance with the environmental and landscape qualities thatexist. Density should also match the design outcomes sought for the area.The interface between township, rural and conservation areas, and issues concerning thephysical and functional relationship between urban and rural activities, are ongoing issuesfor Hurstbridge. The Strategy addresses these issues and outlines environmental anddesign responses that should be used. Further residential development is not consideredsuitable in areas with high environmental values and/or environmental constraints norwhere such development intrudes into the non-urban breaks between nearby townships.EnvironmentHurstbridge is characterised by undulating topography, creek corridors, open spaces andheavily vegetated land. It is the natural environment that drew many of its residents tothe area and which the residents now want to protect and enhance.The Strategy outlines objectives to encourage land management practices and land useactivities that have the capacity to be sustained and both protect and enhance the naturalenvironment. This includes the protection of soil and water quality and the conservation offlora and fauna values.Pest plants are a major issue within private and public open space, especially along thewaterways. The Strategy recommends the continued implementation of community weedprograms and prioritising weed infested open space areas into Council’s work programs.Overlay provisions in the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme related toenvironmental management are detailed. The Strategy recommends the continuedadministration of these provisions.The Strategy recommends the active support of local groups such as Friends and Landcaregroups to undertake environmental works in accordance with relevant catchmentstrategies.Wildfire risk to person and property is an identified hazard in the Hurstbridge area due tothe combination of extensive vegetation cover, the orientation of steeply sloping land,climatic conditions and the location and design of development. The Strategy recommendsthe continued administration of the Wildfire Management Overlay. The overlay requiresany development application to have consideration to water supply, access, buildings andworks and vegetation management.The architectural quality of a streetscape is an important feature in Hurstbridge, which canmake a positive contribution to the overall appearance of the built environment. Historicbuildings are part of the architectural quality of the township and should be protected.Guidelines for built form elements, including roofs, verandahs, windows, doors, signage,height and materials are detailed in the Strategy. The Strategy recommends that a Designand Development Overlay be included in the Nillumbik Planning Scheme by way of anamendment. The overlay should be located over all that land fronting Heidelberg-KinglakeRoad (Main Road) between Parker Street and Cherry Tree Road to guide futuredevelopment.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002vi

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMany other historic buildings, bridges, trees are located within the Hurstbridge study areaand add to the ‘rural’ character of the township. It is important to protect these heritagevalues for future generations to enjoy through application of the Heritage Overlay.Design and landscaping improvements for the Main Road area, including tree planting,street furniture, road alignment and parking and town entry points are detailed in theStrategy. Improvements for the railway area and Greysharps Road are specified.Rural Land UseWhile much of the rural land surrounding Hurstbridge has been identified as having faunaland habitat significance and high vegetation and conservation value, it is recognised thatagriculture is an important economic benefit to the area and should be protected whereagricultural production of land is in operation.Inappropriate subdivisions or other land uses that would affect the productive potential ofagricultural land will be discouraged. New agricultural activities should be encouragedwhere the use is sustainable and will have minimal impact on the environment andsurrounding area.Like many settlements within Nillumbik Shire, residential development in Hurstbridge hasbeen well contained, with the township generally surrounded by larger rural allotments,providing physical separation between other settlements. The aim is to continue to containurban development within defined areas, and new residential growth should only occur inthose areas designated as suitable within this Strategy.Economic DevelopmentNillumbik Shire Council is keen to enhance and encourage sustainable economicdevelopment in the Hurstbridge area. The township centre in particular, is a critical areain terms of the economic development of Hurstbridge, providing both a neighbourhoodservice role and complementary tourist role.Given the limited amount of vacant land available for redevelopment in the Main Roadarea it is considered that the retail/commercial development of this land be encouraged.Consequently, residential uses will be discouraged unless part of a retail/commercialredevelopment.Tourism development consistent with the cultural and environmental qualities of the areawill continue to be supported. It is recognised that there is a need to improve the quality oftourist facilities and infrastructure. Tourism development must not have a detrimentalimpact on the character and environmental qualities of the area.InfrastructureThe objectives for infrastructure in the township are to maximise use of availableinfrastructure and avoid environmental impacts of any future infrastructure provision.Parking plays a major role in contributing to the productive use of a retail centre. Thelocation and design layout of car parking is a major priority in the design program forHurstbridge. Any car parking design and development, however, must be developed in away that responds to the character of the area and is sensitive to the local environment. Itis not suitable to construct car parking areas that do not respond to the local environment.The township requires a road system that will provide for the adequate movement ofvehicles and flow of traffic while also providing for sufficient carparking opportunities andensuring pedestrian safety. Several bypass options were investigated, however, nosignificant road developments are proposed as part of the Strategy.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002vii

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMonash Bridge located on Arthurs Creek Road is both a significant historical feature andan essential access route for vehicles entering the township. Community response has beenvaried in regard to the value of the bridge as an access route worthy of retention in iscurrent form. Three options have been identified with regard to the bridge: retention in itscurrent form, an additional single lane bridge; and an additional dual lane bridge. Councilresolved to with hold a final decision on the preferred option until further consultation hasbeen carried out.. Further investigation of environmental impacts and transportimplications will be necessary.In terms of open space the Strategy identifies a major opportunity to link the open space ofFergusons Paddock with the town centre, reinforcing the rural character of Hurstbridgeand providing new recreation opportunities.SummaryThe key strategies identified for Hurstbridge are:• Planning for the conservation of the qualities of the township.• Protecting natural resources of soil, water, flora and fauna in an area that is criticalfor the maintenance of environmental quality.• Protecting the landscape and built character of the township.• Promoting economic development, particularly locally based employment, in retail,tourism and the service sector.• Ensuring residential development is in accordance with environmental capabilityand is coordinated with infrastructure provision.The Hurstbridge Township Strategy seeks to provide a basis for ensuring that land use,conservation and development that occurs in Hurstbridge contributes to the qualities of thetownship. In order to achieve the long term vision for the township it will be necessary totake a series of steps which incrementally build towards the desired future.The Strategy will be implemented in the following ways:• strategic - changes to the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement, and potentiallyLocal Policies;• statutory - changes to the provisions of the new format Nillumbik Planning Scheme,made by way of an amendment;• advisory - use of the Strategy in giving advice to potential developers and thecommunity about appropriate land use and development in Hurstbridge;• investment - identifying location and type of preferred land use and development inHurstbridge;• capital works - guiding the type and location of capital works development andmaintenance in Hurstbridge; and• environmental management - coordinated with Council’s environmental worksprograms and interaction with environment groups and State Government agencies.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002viii

Hurstbridge Township StrategySnapshot of HurstbridgeSettlement and Housing• Existing settlement is clearly defined with a hard urban edge separating thetownship from rural land uses.• Detached dwellings on single lots are the predominant form of housing in theHurstbridge area.• Few vacant lots within the township boundaries.• Total population of Hurstbridge increasing, although at a slower rate in comparisonto the wider municipality.• There is a high proportion of traditional nuclear families in Hurstbridge.Environment• Significant areas of native vegetation remain adjacent to the township.• Existing development is largely confined by the ridges, immediately adjacent to thetown centre leaving some valleys and gullies and outer lying ridge areasundeveloped.• Much of the native vegetation has been modified and is under threat from weedinvasion and poor land management practices• Significant areas of faunal habitat are largely undisturbed.• Retention of the creek corridors and adjoining open space areas are valuableenvironmental features of the township.• Urban/residential containment, restricting the township to defined parameters withmostly undeveloped bushland covered allotments surround the town.• Steeply sloping land remains undeveloped on the township fringe.Rural Land Use• The existing subdivisional pattern of rural land was created as a result of controlsintroduced in 1971 to retain conservation and landscape values.• Rural land around Hurstbridge has been largely developed as low density residentialproperties.• A large proportion of rural land remains vegetated.• New agricultural enterprises are establishing in the Hurstbridge area.Economic Development• The township centre’s primary function is to serve the local community with acomplementary tourism function.• Some opportunities for further retail and commercial development within the MainRoad.• Retail sector employs the largest number of Hurstbridge residents.• Approximately one-third of retail floor space within the township centre is primarilydirected at visitor and tourist needs.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002ix

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Tourism represents an environmentally sustainable option for continued and furthereconomic growth of the township.• Tourism should not expand to the detriment of the township character and naturalenvironment.Infrastructure• The road network feeds into Heidelberg-Kinglake Road in the township centre, withlarge volumes of thoroughfare traffic.• A single line railway and train station located within the town centre. The maincommuter carpark is located off Heidelberg-Kinglake Road.• The layout of some sections of carparking in the township centre (particularly on thewestern side of Heidelberg-Kinglake Road) is insufficient and inefficient.• The traffic movement within township centre conflicts with pedestrian movement.• Monash Bridge identified as a key point of conflict within the whole road network.• Improved pedestrian access required with better linkages between functionalprecincts to reduce conflict between traffic and pedestrian movement.• No reticulated gas services in the town.• Water, sewerage and drainage services adequate, but not designed for significantexpansion of the town.• No youth and child care facilities.• Total amount of open space provision sufficient, however improvement to provision ofpublic facilities required.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002x

Hurstbridge Township StrategyRecommendationsThe following list provides a full list of the final recommendations (Council resolutions)contained within the Strategy.Settlement and Housing1. That any decision to amend the zoning of the Hurstbridge Secondary College Site (Site 1)not be progressed until a determination has been made by the State EducationDepartment, or other interested parties, on the end use of the site. As part of thedetermination of the end use of the site, consideration should be given to the application ofa Development Plan Overlay to the site that requires an assessment of the environmentalsignificance and hazards of the land, details measures to manage and protect theseenvironmental values and sites out a concept plan to guide future development.2. That areas 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 not be supported for future residential development.3. No amendments to rezone land to a residential zone be considered by Council until there isan identified need in terms of Shire wide housing requirements. This consideration shouldbe made as part of the Nillumbik Housing Strategy and the three year review of theNillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement.Environment4. Actively support local groups such as Friends and Landcare groups to undertakeenvironmental works in accordance with Council strategies and relevant catchmentstrategies.5. Initiate stormwater management arrangements to protect water quality in the area.6. Continue to support community weed control programs and pest animal control in the area.7. Identify and prioritise areas that are weed infested to be incorporated into Council’s workprograms.8. Encourage landowners to utilise education programs (eg Land for Wildlife, Farm$mart,Landcare, Melbourne Water Stream Frontage Program etc) for targeted managementstrategy advice for landowners living adjacent to creeks.9. Introduce an Amendment to incorporate affected areas to the Land Subject to InundationOverlay, upon completion of an assessment of affected areas by Melbourne Water.10. That the Environmental Significance Overlay continue to be applied to identified areas inthe Hurstbridge township.11. That development within identified faunal and habitat areas have regard to theconservation measures contained within the Sites of Faunal and Habitat Significance inNorth East Melbourne (Beardsell 1997).12. Encourage use of the Trust for Nature covenants on private property.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xi

Hurstbridge Township Strategy13. Continue to administer the native vegetation removal controls of the Nillumbik PlanningScheme.14. Where conditions attached to a planning permit for vegetation removal requirereplacement trees, that suggested species are indigenous species of local stock whereappropriate.15. That Council promote compliance with the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 interms of controlling environmental and noxious weeds.16. That residential development be discouraged in areas where there is a combination of highslope, dense vegetation, limited water supply and poor vehicular access.17. Continue to administer the provisions of the Wildfire Management Overlay.18. That a Design and Development Overlay be included in the New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme by way of an amendment. The overlay should incorporate the featuresoutlined above and be located over all that land fronting Heidelberg-Kinglake Road (MainRoad) between Parker Street and Cherry Tree Road to guide future development.19. That other design and development provisions be considered as part of the NillumbikNeighbourhood Character study (forthcoming).20. That Council adopts the Main Road Concept Plan (as detailed on Maps 10 and 11 containedin this Strategy). (Deferred)21. That Council approach VicTrack and/or Alstom to progress strategies for improving theappearance of the station area. That all VicTrack and/or Alstom owned land be included instrategies for improved use in the station and Main Road area, as detailed in the MainRoad Concept Plan. That consultation be maintained with VicTrack and/or Alstom onthese strategies.22. Maintain and enhance the entrance points to Hurstbridge and create attractive and definedapproach to the town centre, through appropriate landscaping and/or use of sculptures.23. Consider a street tree planting program for Main Road, which is linked to the main naturalcommunity being Plains Grassy Woodland, to encourage natural revegetation of thesespecies.24. That where any road works are to be carried out, existing trees are retained where possible.25. Review and replace suitable trees located under powerlines. Some tall species of trees havebeen inappropriately planted under powerlines. There are some species that would be moresuitable for planting under powerlines.26. Street tree and landscaping plans should be prepared in consultation with traders andresidents.27. That an inventory of the provision of existing street furniture along Main Road be carriedout.28. That additional street furniture be provided at identified locations.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xii

Hurstbridge Township Strategy29. Ensure that any new infrastructure, e.g. seating etc. has regard to Council’s DisabilityAccess Policy.30. That a set of guidelines for signage based on the guidelines above, be incorporated withinthe Local Planning Policy Framework of the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme.31. Ensure that any new paving is sympathetic to the surrounding environment and complieswith the Disability Access Policy.32. Paving materials that should be encouraged include concrete, cobblestones or other pavingmaterial that is sympathetic to the streetscape and uses colours to match the surroundingvegetation.Rural Land Use33. Encourage small agricultural enterprises on suitable sites in the wider Hurstbridge areaand encourage retention of existing agricultural land uses.34. Support sustainable agricultural enterprises and the diversification of agriculturalactivities.35. Discourage inappropriate subdivision or land uses that would affect the productivepotential of agricultural land.36. That Council continue to offer property management courses, the sustainable agriculturerebate and other programs designed to encourage sustainable land management practices.Economic Development37. Recognise that the role and function of the Hurstbridge town centre will be maintained as aneighbourhood and specialist services shopping centre.38. That retail uses be encouraged in the Main Road area. Accordingly limit additionalpedestrian level street frontage residential development in the retail and commercialprecincts of the town centre.39. Provide ongoing support to the Hurstbridge Trader’s Association.40. Encourage the establishment of home-based business in the Hurstbridge area.41. Offer continued support to the Nillumbik Tourism Association.42. Promote tourism development, including in surrounding rural areas.43. Protect and enhance those natural and physical features which contribute to providing atourism experience in Hurstbridge.44. Coordinate signage which ensures attractive and appropriate information and directioninformation, while maintaining the visual aesthetics of the township.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xiii

Hurstbridge Township StrategyInfrastructure45. Council consider making application to VicRoads to review speed limits as developmentoccurs in the Hurstbridge area, particularly along Main Road.46. Adopt all those changes above incorporated in the Main Road Concept Plan (coveringcarparking, traffic management, footpaths, open space areas, transport and the like) shownon maps 10 and 11 of the Strategy. (Deferred)47. Review time limits for carparking along Main Road.48. That Council withhold a final decision on the preferred option(s) for the Monash Bridgeuntil further community consultation has been undertaken by the State Government, aswell as assessment of heritage, transport and environmental impacts.49. That a review of facilities and amenities on public land in Hurstbridge be considered.50. That new facilities e.g. BBQ’s, play equipment, pergolas etc. be considered in suitableidentified areas.51. That the acquisition and/or disposal of public land within Hurstbridge be considered aspart of the Open Space Strategy (forthcoming).Strategy Implementation52. Consider amendments to the Municipal Strategic Statement to incorporate therecommendations of the Hurstbridge Township Strategy.53. All recommendations related to capital works be referred to Council’s 10 year capital worksprogram.54. All recommendations related to capital works be subject to additional communityconsultation and design work where appropriate.55. All recommendations related to additional budget commitments for projects or programs beconsidered as part of Council’s budget preparation as appropriate.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xiv

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable of ContentsEXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................................... IRECOMMENDATIONS.......................................................................................................... XI1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 11.1 BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................. 11.2 STRATEGY OBJECTIVES ...................................................................................................... 11.3 STUDY AREA.................................................................................................................... 22. PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT...................................................................................... 62.1 STATE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK ................................................................................. 62.2 MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT...................................................................................... 82.3 COUNCIL PLAN 2000-2003 ............................................................................................ 102.4 EXISTING STRATEGIES AND STUDIES................................................................................... 113. STRATEGY PROCESS ................................................................................................ 153.1 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION.............................................................................................. 153.2 NEW FORMAT NILLUMBIK PLANNING SCHEME...................................................................... 184. COMMUNITY CONSULTATION OUTCOMES................................................................. 204.1 SETTLEMENT AND HOUSING.............................................................................................. 204.2 ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................... 234.3 RURAL LAND USE........................................................................................................... 274.4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................ 284.5 INFRASTRUCTURE ........................................................................................................... 295. TOWNSHIP STRATEGY.............................................................................................. 375.1 SETTLEMENT AND HOUSING.............................................................................................. 375.2 ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................... 825.3 RURAL LAND USE........................................................................................................... 985.4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT .............................................................................................. 1005.5 INFRASTRUCTURE ......................................................................................................... 1036. TOWNSHIP PROFILE .............................................................................................. 1206.1 SETTLEMENT AND HOUSING............................................................................................ 1206.2 ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................. 1306.3 RURAL LAND USE......................................................................................................... 1536.4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT .............................................................................................. 1576.5 INFRASTRUCTURE ......................................................................................................... 1657. CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................... 1767.1 KEY STRATEGY ELEMENTS .............................................................................................. 1767.2 MOVING FORWARD ........................................................................................................ 1767.3 IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS ............................................................................................ 1767.4 MORE INFORMATION...................................................................................................... 177APPENDICESA QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTSB CONSULTATIVE TEAMS DIRECTIONS STATEMENTSC CONSULTATIVE TEAM COMMENTS – DRAFT STRATEGYD SUBMITTERS TO THE NEW FORMAT NILLUMBIK PLANNING SCHEMEE SWOT ANALYSISF PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS SUMMARY – DRAFT STRATEGYG DIAMOND VALLEY SECONDARY COLLEGE SITEH DEVELOPMENT PLANI DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTIONSJ COSTINGSK NEROC REPORT – HURSTBRIDGE SITESNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xv

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMAPSMAP 1 HURSTBTIDGE STUDY AREA ....................................................................................... 3MAP 2 MSS FRAMEWORK PLAN........................................................................................... 4MAP 3 MSS REGIONAL PLAN .............................................................................................. 5MAP 4 TRANSPORT OPPORTUNITIES & CONSRAINTS – TOWN CENTRE ........................................ 32MAP 5 TRANSPORT OPPORTUNITIES & CONSTRAINTS – GENERAL.............................................. 33MAP 6 INVESTIGATION AREAS ............................................................................................ 41MAP 7 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS................................................................................ 43MAP 8 TOWN CENTRE – OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS .................................................... 86MAP 9 TOWN CENTRE – OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS .................................................... 87MAP 10 MAIN ROAD CONCEPT PLAN..................................................................................... 90MAP 11 MAIN ROAD CONCEPT PLAN..................................................................................... 91MAP 12 ALTERNATIVE TRUCK ROUTES................................................................................. 102MAP 13 MONASH BRIDGE ................................................................................................. 109MAP 14 BYPASS ROUTES.................................................................................................. 112MAP 15 ZONING ............................................................................................................. 116MAP 16 LAND USE.......................................................................................................... 118MAP 17 CENSUS COLLECTION DISTRICTS ............................................................................ 121MAP 18 TOPOGRAPHY ...................................................................................................... 126MAP 19 SLOPE............................................................................................................... 127MAP 20 RIDGELINES ....................................................................................................... 128MAP 21 PRE 1750 VEGETATION TYPES............................................................................... 133MAP 22 VEGETATION COVER ............................................................................................. 136MAP 23 SITES OF FAUNAL AND HABITAT SIGNIFICANCE.......................................................... 138MAP 24 WILDFIRE MANAGEMENT OVERLAY .......................................................................... 146MAP 25 TOWNSHIP EDGE ................................................................................................. 150MAP 26 TOWN CENTRE – USE ........................................................................................... 152MAP 27 OPEN SPACE RESERVES ........................................................................................ 169TABLESTABLE 1 INVESTIGATION AREAS ............................................................................................ 40TABLE 2 FLORA ASSESSMENT SUMMATION ............................................................................. 51TABLE 3 SERVICE AUTHORITIES............................................................................................ 52TABLE 4 INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT OF INVESTIGATION AREAS ............................................. 61TABLE 5 SUMMARY OF RESULTS ........................................................................................... 76TABLE 6 CHANGE IN POPULATION ....................................................................................... 120TABLE 7 AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE................................................................................... 120TABLE 8 AGE STRUCTURE AND CHANGES 1991-1996 ........................................................... 122TABLE 9 RELATIONSHIP IN HOUSEHOLDS – 1996 .................................................................. 123TABLE 10 COUNTRY OF BIRTH.............................................................................................. 123TABLE 11 LANGUAGE SPOKEN AT HOME ................................................................................ 124TABLE 12 SITES OF FAUNAL & HABITAT SIGNIFICANCE .............................................................. 137TABLE 13 HERITAGE SITES.................................................................................................. 143TABLE 14 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF JOBS IN HURSTBRIDGE......................................................... 154TABLE 15 EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY.................................................................................... 157TABLE 16 WEEKLY INDIVIDUAL INCOME ................................................................................. 158Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xvi

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDIAGRAMSDIAGRAM 1 TOWNSHIP/BUSHLAND HARD EDGE ........................................................................... 69DIAGRAM 2 TOWNSHIP/AGRICULTURE HARD EDGE ....................................................................... 69DIAGRAM 3 TRANSITION.......................................................................................................... 69DIAGRAM 4 USE OF NATURAL FEATURES .................................................................................... 68DIAGRAM 5 USE OF NATURAL FEATURES.................................................................................... 68DIAGRAM 6 VISUAL BARRIERS.................................................................................................. 70DIAGRAM 7 LOW DENSITY DEVELOPMENT BUFFER ZONE................................................................ 70DIAGRAM 8 RESIDENTIAL AND AGRICULTURAL USES..................................................................... 70DIAGRAM 9 UNDESIRABLE TOWN FORM ..................................................................................... 73DIAGRAM 10 DESIRABLE TOWN FORM ......................................................................................... 74DIAGRAM 11 SCALE................................................................................................................. 82DIAGRAM 12 ROOF FORM.......................................................................................................... 82DIAGRAM 13 VERANDAHS ......................................................................................................... 83DIAGRAM 14 VERANDAH ........................................................................................................... 83DIAGRAM 15 VERANDAH ........................................................................................................... 83DIAGRAM 17 WINDOWS ............................................................................................................ 83DIAGRAM 17 DOORS ................................................................................................................ 84DIAGRAM 18 PAINTING SCHEME................................................................................................. 85DIAGRAM 19 SIGNAGE.............................................................................................................. 92DIAGRAM 20 MEDIAN ISLANDS – MAIN ROAD.............................................................................. 103DIAGRAM 21 MEDIAN STRIP TREATMENT.................................................................................... 104DIAGRAM 22 STREETSCAPE ..................................................................................................... 104Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002xvii

Hurstbridge Township Strategy1. IntroductionThe Hurstbridge Township Strategy is an integrated land use strategy for the future use,conservation and development of the township over the next 10 to 20 years.The Strategy documents the preferred form of use, conservation and development of landthat should take place in Hurstbridge and the actions to achieve this.The Strategy will be implemented through the Nillumbik Planning Scheme, Council’scapital works programs and other Council projects and programs.The Strategy has been prepared within the context established by State Planning Policy,the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement and the Nillumbik Council Plan.1.1 BackgroundPrior to Council amalgamations in 1994, parts of the Hurstbridge township were containedwithin three municipalities being the former Shires of Eltham, Diamond Valley andWhittlesea. This arrangement limited the development of consistent policies and planningcontrols across the area. Hurstbridge and its surrounds are now located within the Shire ofNillumbik allowing, for the first time, the development of an integrated strategy for thearea as a whole. The Strategy is an initiative of Nillumbik Shire Council to provide avision and strategic land use plan for the development of the township.Previous studies have focused on landscape and design, and retail and traffic issuesaffecting the commercial precinct of the Hurstbridge township. This Strategy will build onprevious work undertaken, but extends this further to consider a broader range of land useplanning issues across the township and in the surrounding area.1.2 Strategy ObjectivesThe project objectives as contained within the Project Brief prepared are:• Review, consolidate and update past studies to provide an overview of the townshipand an assessment of the relative success of previous planning approaches;• To identify the requirements of the range of users of the township, including youth,elderly and disabled;• Identify land use planning issues and formulate actions to address these issues;• Achieve a community consultation process for the duration of the project whichaddresses the needs of all stakeholders and provides for the identification of a widerange of issues;• Develop community participation and ownership of the Strategy;• Involve the community, government agencies and key stakeholders in thedevelopment of the Strategy;• Provide an integrated strategy that addresses current and future land use planningissues;• Promote safe and efficient transport and movement systems;• Protect and enhance the design and landscape qualities of the township;• Ensure adequate provision of land for various forms of use and development,consistent with the overall strategy for the township; ensure infrastructure servicesare provided in an efficient and environmentally sensitive manner;Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 1

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 1 - study areaNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 3

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 2- framework plan mssNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 4

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 3- region map from mssNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 5

Hurstbridge Township Strategy2. Planning Policy ContextThis section provides a brief overview of the major planning policies affecting Hurstbridgeand which have been recognised in the formalisation of this Strategy. Consistency withexisting and future Council policies is important to facilitate the implementation of theStrategy.2.1 State Planning Policy FrameworkThe State Planning Policy Framework provides a context for spatial planning and decisionmaking by Council. There are specific policies which encompass objectives andimplementation techniques that apply across Victoria. Council must take account of, andgive effect to, the general principles and specific policies applicable to the various issues toensure integrated decision making. The following extracts provide a brief outline of some ofthe principles in the State Planning Policy Framework that are considered relevant to theHurstbridge Township.SettlementPlanning authorities should plan to accommodate projected population growth over at leasta ten year period, taking account of opportunities for redevelopment and intensification ofexisting urban areas, as well as the limits of land capability and natural hazards,environmental quality and costs of providing infrastructure.In planning for urban growth, planning authorities should encourage consolidation ofexisting urban areas and especially higher density and mixed use development near publictransport routes.Planning decisions should assist the creation of linked parkland and open space systemsand the protection of high quality agricultural land and native vegetation.EnvironmentThose issues that are applicable to Hurstbridge are the protection of catchments,waterways and groundwater, water quality and, floodplain management, and wildfire.Other important issues include: conservation of native flora and fauna, open space,heritage and energy efficiency. Some of the general implementation measures include:• ensuring that land use activities that may discharge contaminated runoff or wastesto waterways are sited and managed to protect the quality of surface water andground water resources, rivers, streams, wetland, estuaries and marineenvironments;• taking flood prone areas into consideration in the preparation of planning schemesand land use planning decisions to avoid intensifying the impacts of flooding throughinappropriately located uses and developments;• consideration of potential impacts of land use and development on the spread ofplants and animal pests from areas of known infestation into natural ecosystems;and• promotion of energy efficient building and subdivision design.HousingPlanning authorities are required to identify areas suitable for residential developmenthaving regard to population projections, environmental factors and infrastructureprovision.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 6

Hurstbridge Township StrategyNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 7

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMinister’s Direction No. 6 is a State Government policy, which must be addressed for anyproposal to introduce new areas of low-density residential land. Minister’s Direction No. 6states that supply of land for residential development at a density of 0.4 to 2 hectaresshould not exceed ten years’ supply.Economic DevelopmentThose economic issues applicable to economic development in Hurstbridge are business,tourism and agriculture. Some of the general implementation measures include:• encouraging the development of a range of well designed and sited tourist facilities,including integrated resorts, motel accommodation and smaller scale operations suchas host farm, bed and breakfast and retail opportunities; and• supporting effective agricultural production and processing infrastructure, ruralindustry and farm related retailing and assist genuine farming enterprises to adjustflexibly to market changes.InfrastructureThe main issues applicable to infrastructure development in Hurstbridge are declaredhighways and railways, bicycle transport, education facilities, water supply, sewerage anddrainage, water management and telecommunications. Some of the generalimplementation measures include:• encouraging higher land use densities and mixed use developments near railwaystations, transport interchanges, and principal bus routes. pedestrian access topublic transport should be facilitated and safeguarded; and• planning wherever possible, off-road bicycle networks which should be included innew urban development.2.2 Municipal Strategic StatementThe Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) forms part of the New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme. The MSS outlines the strategic vision for sustainable land use andnatural resource management in the municipality and responds to a range ofenvironmental, social and economic factors which shape the Shire.The MSS provides a historical and current profile of the municipality in relation tosettlement, housing, rural land use, environment, conservation, landscape, economicdevelopment and infrastructure. The MSS also identifies the key land-use features andtrends that will influence the future strategic direction of land-use and development withinthe Shire.The MSS outlines the objectives and strategies which need to be implemented to achievethe desired land use and natural resource management vision. Most of these strategies willbe implemented through the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme in the form of localpolicies, and zone and overlay provisions.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 8

Hurstbridge Township StrategyEnvironment, Conservation and LandscapeObjectives• To protect and enhance sites of environmental significance.• To encourage sustainable land management practices.• To protect places of natural and cultural heritage.Strategies• Provide support and assistance to community environmental projects involved inprotecting and enhancing areas of high environmental value.• Undertake community education programs that will improve the knowledge andskills of landowners and managers in sustainable land management.• Application of an Environmental Significance Overlay to identified sites of national,state and regional faunal and habitat significance, derived from the NEROC Report(Beardsell 1997).• Apply the Heritage Overlay to identify, protect and enhance heritage places ofnatural or cultural significance.Settlement and HousingKey Objectives• To provide for residential development which meets the projected increase of thenumber and type of households within the municipality, while respecting localcommunity and environmental values through locality and site responsiveconsideration and design.• To contain urban development and maintain non-urban breaks between existingurban areas and townships, and between townships.• To consolidate and sustain existing urban areas and township character.Strategies• Implement township strategies.• Cluster commercial and community facilities in rural townships that have nocommercial zonings.• Implement a local policy to facilitate medium density housing in areas with goodaccess to local services and public transport, which demonstrates site and arearesponsive design.Rural Land UseKey Objectives• To limit the fragmentation of land in rural areas.• To facilitate the separation of conflicting rural land uses.• To minimise infrastructure servicing demand in rural areasNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 9

Hurstbridge Township StrategyStrategies• Protect the productive potential of rural land by limiting small lot subdivision.• Restrict the number of rural lots having more than one dwelling throughimplementation of a local policy to guide consideration of permit applications formore than one dwelling per lot in non-urban areas.• Apply the Environmental Rural Zone to non-urban land with environmentalsignificance and landscape valuesEconomic DevelopmentObjectives• To facilitate sustainable economic development.• To promote good urban design in all townships.Strategies• Promote economic development opportunities that build on the cultural and physicalcharacteristics of the conservation and rural focus (the ‘green wedge’) of the Shire.• Encourage the creation of a sense of place and opportunities for meeting andcommunity interaction.InfrastructureObjectives• To ensure the efficient provision of infrastructure to areas designated for residentialand low-density residential development.• To minimise infrastructure servicing demand in rural areas.Strategies• Limit the development of residential and low density residential services untilcritical infrastructure services are available.• Apply the Residential 1 Zone to contain township areas which can be serviced by anappropriate range of utility services.2.3 Council Plan 2000-2003The Council Plan 2000/2003 is a major strategic planning document incorporating thesignificant initiatives that will be undertaken by Council in the short and medium term. Itsets out Council’s vision, values and goals. The document also builds on a number ofsignificant policy documents that have already been developed including the MSS and theRecreation Strategy. The Council Plan is the result of significant Councillor, staff andcommunity input.The Council Plan sets out eight (8) municipal goals which have been further developedthrough the identification of key objectives and action plans to achieve these objectives.Some of the key goals and objectives that are applicable to the development of the WattleGlen Township Strategy are outlined below.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 10

Hurstbridge Township StrategyGoal 1 – Environment Protection and SustainabilityObjectives• To protect and enhance Nillumbik’s unique natural environment.• To facilitate community partnerships and ownership of key environmental projectsand programs.Goal 2 –Land Use Planning, Development and ConservationObjectives• To encourage sensitive planning, development and conservation that protects andenhances the natural and built environment.• To encourage participation and facilitate understanding by the community and otherstakeholders in the planning process.Goal 3 – Community EngagementObjectives• To recognise the diversity of views within our community and ensure our systems forengaging people in decision-making are inclusive and respectful of this diversity.• To effectively communicate Council’s activities, decisions and achievements.2.4 Existing Strategies and StudiesExisting strategies and studies relevant to Hurstbridge include:Neighbourhood Character Study (2000) Mike Scott & Associates, Lisa Riddle PlanningServices and John Curtis Pty LtdThis study was commissioned by Nillumbik Shire Council to provide a strategic basis forhousing, landscape, built form and general development within most of the settlementareas zoned Residential 1, Township, Mixed Use and Low Density Residential throughoutthe Shire. The study involved a broad analysis of the urban areas of the Shire, detailedmapping of the various characteristics and community consultation. The result is theidentification of seven character types within the urban areas, which have been furtherdivided into 19 precincts. A brochure has been prepared for each precinct detailing keycharacteristics, a preferred future character statement, and precinct guidelines for futuredevelopment. The Preferred Future Character descriptions will be used to assess thesuitability of proposed developments.Residential Design Guidelines (2000) Mike Scott & Associates, Lisa Riddle PlanningServices and John Curtis Pty LtdThe Residential Design Guidelines have been prepared in conjunction with theNeighbourhood Character Study. The Shire’s natural environment presents a number ofphysical constraints on the siting, design and construction of new dwellings. These includethe need to retain natural bushland as well as prevent erosion, preserve wildlife andmaintain natural vistas. The guidelines provide design techniques for single and mediumdensity housing with particular reference to slope, vegetation and building materials. Theguidelines have been developed and linked to each character precinct to support theachievement of the preferred future character.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 11

Hurstbridge Township StrategyHousing Strategy (2000) Nillumbik Shire CouncilThe Housing Strategy provides a strategic framework for future Council decision-makingrelating to settlement and housing within the Shire and to facilitate the planning of futurehousing so that the needs of future households are met. The Strategy recognises theimportance of housing and residential development in the Shire, however, any housingdevelopment needs to occur within the context of protecting the green wedge andmaintaining environmental values. The Strategy recognises however, that declininghousehold sizes, an aging population and an unmet demand for more affordable housingindicate the need for a greater diversity of housing in the future.Recreation Strategy (2000) Nillumbik Shire CouncilThis document was prepared to identify the needs of the Nillumbik community in relationto the provision of recreation and leisure facilities. The Strategy provides a strategicframework for recreation and leisure planning in the Shire over the next five to ten years.An inventory of all existing recreation and leisure facilities has been compiledincorporating community halls, ovals and indoor sporting stadiums. Communityconsultation was undertaken to determine participation trends of recreation and leisurefacilities in the Shire and to gain feedback regarding the condition of current facilities andperceived need/desire for new facilities.Diamond Creek Trail - Diamond Creek to Hurstbridge Feasibility Study (July 1999)ParklinksThis study was commissioned by Nillumbik Shire Council to determine the feasibility oflocating a bicycle trail between the Diamond Creek and the Hurstbridge townships. Threepossible alignments for the trail were considered being along the rail reserve, the DiamondCreek or the roadside. Each option was rated having regard to connectivity, amenity,experience, cost, safety, achievability, access to attractions, security and environmentalimpact. The final recommendation was for an alignment, which incorporates componentsfrom all three options and is staged to enable some sections to be developed as the need andthe opportunity arises.Yarra Catchment Action Plan (1999) Department of Natural Resources and EnvironmentThis plan has been developed as the ‘first ever Management Plan for the Yarra River,involving a total review of the policy objectives for the entire length of the Yarra andleading to a long term strategy for the river’. An assessment of catchment issues (criteria)affecting the 19 sub-catchments has been undertaken and included strategic land useplanning and development, stormwater management, sewage management, nativevegetation and fauna habitat enhancement, recreation and tourism and weed and pestanimal management. Criteria for each issue are reviewed in the context of community andagency experience and result in six sub-catchments being identified for priority action ofwhich includes the Diamond Creek sub-catchment. The Diamond Creek was included dueto the consistently high number of problems identified. These include severe waterwaydegradation, pressure for urban expansion along the corridor and nutrient problemsassociated with septic tanks and urban run-off.Disability Needs Analysis Final Report (February 1998) J. Prideaux and AssociatesThis report covers the whole of the Nillumbik Shire to provide Council with information forthe development of a policy to support best practice services and well focused programs forpeople with disabilities living in the Shire. Hurstbridge is identified as not being wellserviced by disability services and access. The report recommends improvement toeducating the community about local services and facilities. In summary the report foundthat there is a need for improved access to public transport and to develop communityawareness about individual local communities.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 12

Hurstbridge Township StrategySites of Faunal and Habitat Significance in North East Melbourne (1997) Cam BeardsellThis report identifies and describes 104 sites of faunal and habitat significance in NorthEast Melbourne. Within each site description, sites have been ranked into three levels ofsignificance of habitat and fauna (National, Sate, and Regional). Rankings for habitat arebased on the number of criteria they possess (Very High, High, Medium). Habitatsignificance criteria include: diversity of habitat reference stands; species diversity andpopulation density; population or species significance in a Victorian context. Faunalcriteria are also ranked against a criteria of National, State or Regional significance withadditional sub-criteria representing rarity, diversity, representativeness and populationdensity. Each site also contains conservation management measures which outline thethreatening processes and conservation policies for each site.2020 Vision - A Preferred Future (1996) Peter Ellyard for Nillumbik Shire CouncilThis report aimed to provide and co-ordinate a cohesive vision for the future of the Shire ofNillumbik. The information contained in the report was compiled through extensivecommunity consultation, and considered key areas such as: population, the builtenvironment, town and community centres, transport, agriculture, arts and culturalactivities and social groups such as the young and the elderly. A clear finding from thereport was the need to maintain a strong commitment to the ‘green wedge’ and to foster astrong environmental ethos for the Shire.Nillumbik Tourism Report (November 1996) La Trobe University, Albury/WodongaCampus, Department of BusinessThis report outlines the current tourism scenario within the Shire of Nillumbik and theobjectives and strategies that are critical to the future growth and success of the tourismindustry. It also provided a marketing strategy for future tourism development. Thefindings were both qualitative and quantitative research methods (resident attitudesurveys, visitor surveys, written submissions and through the public consultationprograms). The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to tourism in the Shirewere documented in relation to other tourist precincts and the needs of the tourismindustry. The report recommended marketing strategies to improve visitation levels,through increasing awareness of the Nillumbik region. In summary, it was found thatCouncil and residents are generally supportive of further advancement of the local tourismindustry so long as development does not occur to the detriment of the naturalenvironment.Diamond Creek Concept Plan (June 1995) Melbourne Parks and WaterwaysThis concept plan was developed to direct the restoration of natural habitat andsustainable land management along the entire length of Diamond Creek from KinglakeNational Park to the Yarra River. This plan also provided a framework for continueddevelopment of recreation and leisure opportunities within public land adjacent towaterways. The major initiatives contained within the plan include: natural environment;heritage; recreation; water quality; community involvement; management andmaintenance. The Concept Plan categorises the Diamond Creek from Chute Street toFergusons Paddock as having medium habitat, regional fauna and regional botanicalsignificance and from Fergusons Paddock to St Andrews Township as having high habitatand national faunal significance.Shire of Eltham Hurstbridge Town Centre Study (June 1989) Henshall Hansen andAssociatesThe primary objective of this study was to prepare a plan for the town centre to address thekey components of car parking, vehicular access, pedestrian access, land-use andstreetscape design. The study was prepared after significant community consultation toidentify the main issues and areas of concern with regard to these key components of thetown centre. The study includes a number of objectives and strategies for each of theprecinct areas with implementation of the concept plan to be achieved over four stages.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 13

Hurstbridge Township StrategyHurstbridge Townscape Guidelines (1987) RMIT Design Studio 3, Department of LandscapeArchitectureThis document developed landscape and townscape guidelines to improve the physicalappearance of the town thereby revitalising the social and economic climate and providinga sense of community and place. Guidelines were proposed for each of the townscapecomponents identified including the town approaches, street tree planting, architecture,street furniture and signage, paving, residential gardens, car parking facilities and publicopen space.Key Points - Planning Policy Context• The Hurstbridge Township Strategy is prepared in the context of the State PlanningPolicy Framework (SPPF) and the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement.• The Strategy has been prepared having regard to the Council Plan 2000-2003.• A number of previous studies and strategies relevant to Hurstbridge have beenconsidered the preparation of this Strategy.•Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 14

Hurstbridge Township Strategy3. Strategy Process3.1 Community ConsultationThis section outlines the process of community consultation that has been followed. Theoutcomes of this consultation are included in Section 5. Community input has played anintegral role in the development of this Strategy. Public consultation has enabled thecontribution of local expertise and knowledge in helping to work through the situationanalysis, issues identification and strategy formulation phases.The main aim of the consultation process has been to establish an interactive processbetween local residents and Council to facilitate a co-operative approach to the Strategyand its implementation. Community and stakeholder consultation during the preparationof the Strategy has included the following program of actions:• media releases issued through the local newspaper to advise residents to the processof the Strategy;• a pamphlet detailing the Strategy program and consultation process was sent toaround 1,100 households in the study area and surrounding areas, plus those peoplewho had registered an interest in the Strategy;• a township Charrette was held on the weekend of 10 and 11 July 1999. TheCharrette served as a forum to allow residents to identify and analyse strategicissues confronting the community and as an opportunity for community groups and arange of professionals to interact to discuss issues and look at improvements for thetownship;• a meeting was held on 22 July 1999 to present the Charrette Report to the localcommunity. This report documented issues and ideas raised at the townshipCharrette and has provided a focus for the preparation of the Strategy as well asfacilitate further discussion;• over 1,000 questionnaires were distributed to households within the study area andsurrounding areas seeking the community’s views and expectations for Hurstbridge.Comments are addressed as part of the Strategy. Approximately 300 questionnaireswere returned;• following a nomination process, three consultative teams were appointed to facilitatefurther discussion on township, environment and transport issues;• upon completion of the Strategy, Bulletin No. 3 was distributed to householdsinviting residents to attend two walk-in workshops on 11 and 13 December, 1999.The workshops enabled people to view the Strategy and discuss proposals on a oneto-onebasis with Council officers;• the bulletin and subsequent public notices in the Diamond Valley News invitedpublic comment, approximately 213 submissions were received;• Councillors and Council officers invited to attend a community meeting held on 10February 2000 to discuss the draft Strategy, organised by local community groups;and• submitters to the draft Strategy were invited to attend and make presentation to thePolicy and Services Committee Meeting on 14 March 2000. Twenty submitters maderepresentation to the Committee.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 15

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTownship CharretteThe Township Charrette was held over the weekend of 10 and 11 July, 1999. The main aimof the Hurstbridge Charrette was to identify planning issues and develop practical actionsthat can be implemented to address these issues.The term ‘charrette’ is commonly used to refer to collaborative planning exercisesundertaken in a short space of time which are generally used to efficiently gain input andideas from the community about design and/or land use issues.The Charrette was undertaken at Hurstbridge to encourage greater communityparticipation and to allow immediate data collection and site inspections. Approximately 50people attended each day of the Charrette, and a wide range of views were expressed duringthe workshop sessions.There was sufficient opportunity for participants in the Charrette to discuss issues andwork through potential solutions. The main issues discussed at the Charrette related tothemes of traffic and transport, the environment, retail and tourism opportunities,recreation and open space, streetscape and landscape design and land-use planning issues.To facilitate discussion, attendees formed several workshop groups to address individualtheme topics. Each workshop group was required to identify the main issues within eachtheme and identify possible actions or solutions. Each group was also given an opportunityto prioritise their proposed actions and/or identify those criteria against which all futureworks and development should meet.The issues identified as part of the Charrette have assisted in focusing discussion andworking through possible solutions to the key issues identified in the brief. The issuesarising from the Charrette were a key element in the preparation of the questionnaire thatwas subsequently sent to households in the Hurstbridge area.QuestionnaireA questionnaire was prepared with both open and closed questions, to gain a broaderperspective on those issues that appear to be of most concern to the Hurstbridgecommunity. Approximately 1,100 questionnaires were sent to households in the studyarea, with around 300 being returned (almost 25%). It should be noted that while aresponse was received from nearly one-quarter of all households notified, the number ofresponses represents less than 10% of the total population.Responses to the closed questions were similar to the attitudes of those sections of thecommunity participating in the Charrette. The provision of open-ended questions enabledan opportunity for respondents to identify specific issues of concern and present their viewson a range of topics. Many of the comments forwarded by respondents are included inSection 5.The questionnaire also provided an opportunity for people to identify what qualities theymost value as well as identification of the main threats to the quality of life in Hurstbridge.The full results from the questionnaire can be found in Appendix A.Consultative TeamsAs part of the community consultation process, three consultative teams were establishedwith members appointed by the Nillumbik Shire Council. The Consultative Teams were:1. Land use, infrastructure and planning;2. Environment, landscape, townscape, design and heritage; andNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 16

Hurstbridge Township Strategy3. Transport, traffic and parking.The two principal aims of the consultative teams were to:• suggest matters to be considered as part of the draft Strategy; and• provide comment on material produced as part of the draft Strategy.Each group met several times to identify the main issues arising from each topic area. Awritten ‘directions statement’ outlining the matters each consultative team considersshould be addressed by the Hurstbridge Township Strategy (focused on the planning issuefor that committee) was prepared and presented to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 19October 1999. The written directions statement for each group is indicated as Appendix B.Upon release of the draft Strategy, each member of the three consultative teams wasrequested to provide a written report commenting on the draft Strategy, focussing on theplanning theme discussed by that team. Nine submissions were received. Each submissionhas been assessed and where appropriate changes incorporated into this document. Asummary of comments from each team is included as Appendix C.Community Response to Draft StrategyCouncil released the draft Strategy for comment on 6 December 1999. The initial closingdate for public comment was extended to 21 January 2000 to allow for the ChristmasHoliday period.During the exhibition period approximately 213 submissions were received. Some 133 ofthese submissions were in the form of a standard letter, requesting Council to review theissue of development in the township to ensure that the current environment, lifestyle andcharacter of Hurstbridge are retained. The letter refers to questionnaire results containedin the appendices of the draft Strategy, which indicates that the majority of respondentsdisagree that further residential development should occur in the township area.In addition to the standard letter, approximately 22 response forms were returned alongwith 50 written submissions. It should be noted that a number of households put inmultiple submissions. In all approximately 172 individual households made a response tothe draft Strategy.Submitters to the draft Strategy were invited to attend and make representation to thePolicy and Services Committee, held at the Council Offices on 14 March 2000. Twentysubmitters to the draft Strategy responded to the invitation and made a brief presentationto the Committee.Key Points - Community Consultation• There were many opportunities for community participation in the Strategy.• The results of a weekend ‘charrette’ have been documented in a Charrette Report.• Three community consultative teams have prepared and tabled with Council a‘directions statement’ on township development, environment and transport.• Additional comment has been received following the release of the draft Strategy.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 17

Hurstbridge Township Strategy3.2 New Format Nillumbik Planning SchemeBackgroundNillumbik Shire Council commenced the preparation of its New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme in 1996. The new format planning scheme was placed on exhibition inJuly 1997. A second informal exhibition period commenced in March 1998 as a result ofchanges to the provisions by the State Government, which affected a large proportion of theShire. Any person was able to make a submission to Council in relation to the new formatplanning scheme and over 700 submissions were received.A Panel and Advisory Committee was appointed to consider the new format planningscheme and hear and make recommendations on submissions. The Panel conducted ahearing in February and March 1999. The Report of the Panel and Advisory Committeewas released in April 1999.The Panel’s recommendations were set out in three parts:A) actions recommended for implementation prior to adoption of the scheme;B) actions that could be deferred for later action by Council; andC) actions that should be referred to the Department of Infrastructure.The New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme was revised having regard to the ‘A’recommendations of the Report of the Panel and Advisory Committee. This includedamendments to the Municipal Strategic Statement, amendments to the schedules to thezone and overlay provisions and modifications to the application of zones and overlays toland throughout the municipality. While some of the recommendations affected asignificant number of properties throughout the Shire, a number of recommendations alsorelated to individual properties. The revised new format planning scheme was adopted byCouncil on 19 October 1999 and was subsequently submitted to the Minister for approval.The Nillumbik Planning Scheme was approved by the Minister for Planning on 22 June2000.SubmissionsApproximately 70 submissions were made to the new format planning scheme relating toland in the Hurstbridge area. These submissions tend to relate to residential development,and in particular, properties on the township fringe. The majority of submissions werereceived from people living and/or owning property on the township edge. A list of allsubmitters can be found in Appendix D.Of these submissions, 20 were from, or made on behalf of, property owners seeking to haveland rezoned or have provisions changed to provide for further residential development. Afurther 10 submissions objected to alterations to the Environmental Rural Zone provisionsto remove the clause making possible the subdivision of land for a house lot excision. Mostof these submissions relate to land on the western side of the Diamond Creek. Combinedthese submissions relate to land with an approximate total area of approximately 185hectares.Thirty-six submissions opposed further residential development of the township. Themajority of these submissions opposed the rezoning of particular properties.Six submissions made were generally in support of the New Format Nillumbik PlanningScheme. Five additional submissions provided comment/suggested changes to theMunicipal Strategic Statement.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 18

Hurstbridge Township StrategyCouncil made a recommendation on each submission to the New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme to the Panel and Advisory Committee. Council’s position was to notsupport any of the requests for rezoning and subdivision within Hurstbridge until suchtime as this Strategy was prepared and adopted.Panel RecommendationsThe Panel made a number of comments in response to submissions received in relation tothe Hurstbridge area, the most significant being that no submissions requesting permissionto develop land in the Hurstbridge area be supported until such time as a strategic reviewis carried out for the area.The Panel did make one exception, however, and recommended that Council provide for atwo lot subdivision of land in Christian Road. The Panel considered that this particularproperty could be subdivided as it would provide an appropriate buffer to the township, dueto its relationship with Arthurs Creek and urban development west of the creek.Furthermore the subdivision would enable the placement of management controls along theArthurs Creek frontage.The Panel also indicated its support of the rezoning of land at 1038 Heidelberg-KinglakeRoad, from Environmental Rural Zone to Township Zone. The Panel identified the land asa ‘signature’ site located at the entrance to the township and concluded that site responsivedevelopment on the subject land would make a valuable contribution to the HurstbridgeTownship. In this case the Panel recommeded that Council consider including the landwithin the urban boundary at part of the strategy review.In regard to Hurstbridge generally, the Panel considered that, because of the terraincharacteristics, the existing subdivision pattern, and the broader range of controls availablein the township zone (e.g. subdivision of residential lots between 300 to 4,000 squaremetres), that it is appropriate to have an immediate interface between the residential areaand surrounding Environmental Rural Zone. The Panel considered that there is no realneed for a substantive transition or buffer area between the two land-uses.Although the Panel indicated that future land use planning of Hurstbridge should bedetermined through this Strategy, in its response to some of the submissions, the Panelconsidered that ‘overall benefits could accrue if Hurstbridge did achieve a greater servicingrole for both its immediate and hinterland areas through allowing some growth of its urbanelements’.Key Points - New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme• Approximately 70 submissions made to the New Format Nillumbik Planning Schemerelated to land in Hurstbridge.• The Panel considered that the issues raised in these submissions should beconsidered as part of the Hurstbridge Township Strategy.• The Panel indicated general support for an ‘immediate interface’ between townshipand rural areas, and the potential for some additional residential growth.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 19

Hurstbridge Township Strategy4. Community Consultation OutcomesCommunity consultation has played a key role in the preparation of this Strategy. Theconsultation process has particularly assisted in the preparation of the township profile,SWOT analysis and planning strategy. The SWOT analysis is included in Appendix E.The first stage of the consultation process involved the identification of issues. The issuesraised by the community generally fall into the five categories:1. settlement and housing;2. environment;3. rural land use;4. economic development; and5. infrastructure.Community values have been summarised, and comprise a variety of views on the aboveissues. ‘Value’ can be defined as, ‘that property of a thing because of which it is esteemed,desirable or useful, or the degree of this property possessed; worth, merit or importance;any object or quality desirable as a means or as an end in itself; to regard or esteem highly’(The Macquarie Dictionary, Macquarie University, NSW, 1989).The second stage of the consultation process enabled the community to comment on thedraft Strategy. A brief summary of the main issues raised in response to the draft Strategyis incorporated at the end of each of the five key topics outlined above. A full summary isincluded in Appendix F.4.1 Settlement and HousingCommunity Views - Settlement and HousingOne of the major issues that is being considered as part of this Strategy revolves aroundsettlement patterns and housing supply and demand within the Hurstbridge area. There isa view held by some members of the community to allow further development around thetown. In contrast, other people are generally opposed to any further development outsidethe existing township area.The following lists some of the community views/attitudes in relation to the issue of furtherdevelopment in Hurstbridge:• Residential development should not be considered as inevitable for Hurstbridge.Some of us would like to see the current character retained as long as possible.• If there is any development at all it should be of a small scale.• With an expanding population encroaching all around us and land becoming morescarce; we cannot continue to be narrow minded about development. Hurstbridgewill become a ghost town if we do not allow moderate, carefully planned development.• We should not have to defend our way of life against developers whose only aim isprofit. Hurstbridge attracts people the way it is now. If we wanted greaterconvenience we would live nearer the city.• Moderate growth is needed to support local business.• Hurstbridge must remain a separate town and not merge into other suburbs.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 20

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• More people have the right to grow up in these surroundings. People who want thisfor their families are being frozen out.• Council can take a ‘King Canute’ attitude and resist all development and assume itisn’t going to happen anyway, or it can be proactive in managing the development sothat it is balanced.• There is an extreme, pent up demand for small acre lots here - legislate for theserequirements.• Over-development has not only eroded the rural atmosphere but has caused drainageproblems and strained power supplies which are no longer reliable in areas.• Hurstbridge is an island paradise in a sea of suburbia - let’s preserve it.• Allowing some new residential development would perhaps allow expansion ofservices such as gas and sewerage.• People purchase in Hurstbridge for environmental reasons, space and lack ofresidential development.• We believe that development should occur but not on a grand scale. It should be keptto an absolute minimum.• There needs to be some identification of the township ‘edge’.• Implementation of buffer zones around the township edge.• Infill development will maintain the urban edge of the township; and• Consolidation versus moderate expansion of the township.As part of the questionnaire sent to households in the Hurstbridge area, residents wereasked to identify areas suitable for residential development. From the replies received it isevident that some members of the community are opposed to any further development inthe Hurstbridge district while others see major expansion as the future vision fordevelopment in Hurstbridge. Some of the replies given to this question included:• along the main roads to and from the township leaving the back roads and bushareas natural;• along Cherry Tree Road;• along Haleys Gully Road;• along the railway line;• anywhere within the study area;• on the high school land and along Main Road;• within a 5 kilometre radius around the existing township;• development should only be within the current residential zones i.e. not constantlyreducing the bushland and farmland;• Diamond Creek; and• Wattle Glen.Community Values - Settlement and HousingThe following set of values aim to identify social, environmental, physical and economicoutcomes that people have said should be achieved in the event of further developmentbeing allowed. These values are:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 21

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• maintenance of the natural environment;• retention of bush woodland character. Future development should allow for theretention of trees and provide adequate areas for future planting of indigenous trees;• retain definition of the township edge;• residential development should be site responsive and should complement theexisting streetscape and townscape character;• new development should have regard to the visual impact (colour of materials,height, style etc);• any new development should have minimal impact on the existing landscape(vegetation removal, effect of sight lines, views etc);• new development should not impact on the amenity of adjoining/adjacent residents;• development should be designed and sited to minimise removal of indigenousvegetation;• the use of vacant land in the township area, suitable for residential use anddevelopment should be maximised;• a diversity of housing stock should be provided; and• ensure new development does not exceed capacity of existing infrastructure, orinfrastructure is provided prior to any new development.Comment on Draft Strategy – Settlement & HousingThe majority of responses received in relation to the draft Strategy focussed on, or madesome comment on, the issue of development. Of the 172 households that made asubmission, approximately 80% of households do not support residential development inHurstbridge. Most of these objections (133) were in the form of a standard letter.Clearly a large proportion of residents do not support any further residential growth in thetown. Some of the reasons given by respondents who submitted a response form or writtensubmission include:• Further residential growth conflicts with resident preferences (9 respondents);• Residential development will not influence economic growth of the township (3respondents);• Infrastructure constraints are a concern (6 respondents); and• There is no demonstrated need for residential development (4 respondents).Many residents oppose further development on the basis that residential development willsignificantly alter the character of the Hurstbridge township. There is also considerableconcern that further development will have a detrimental impact on the naturalenvironment.Approximately 18 written submissions and 10 response forms were in support of residentialdevelopment, although a number of these respondents support limited development of oneor two sites only. A number of respondents made specific references to the preferreddevelopment areas identified in the draft Strategy. Responses were a mixture of supportand disagreement for the sites identified as potentially suitable for development within theStrategy.• Support for the identification of sites for development (4 respondents);Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 22

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Do not support development of Area 1 (3 respondents);• Do not support development of Area 3 (3 respondents)• Support the development of Area 1 (2 respondents);• Support the development of Area 3 (4 respondents);• No areas are suitable for residential development (1 respondent);• Limited development on some of the sites is possible (2 respondents); and• Support development of an additional site not identified as suitable within the draftStrategy (7 respondents).A few of respondents also identified other areas which they believe should be developedincluding land in Area 5 (Wattletree Road) and land to the south-west of the township.4.2 EnvironmentCommunity Views - Natural EnvironmentThroughout the consultation process there has been a consistent identification by the localcommunity to preserve, maintain and enhance the natural environment. The environmentis highly valued by the local community.Some of the issues and views identified include:• No flora survey has been undertaken. Such a study should be done and incorporatedinto planning controls.• Environmental management of both public and private land needs to be improved.• Road surfacing and drainage is an important issue. Priority areas for sealing includeroads near creeks and high density development.• Areas of habitat and wildlife corridors should be protected and maintained.• Areas along the creeks and wetland areas should be revegetated, protected andmaintained.• More signs indicating prevalence of animals on roads are required.• A weed management strategy needs to be ‘sold’ to residents to help combatenvironmental weeds in the area.• Minimise erosion from sloping sites through revegetation and mulching ofunprotected land.• Areas of high environmental and habitat significance should be protected.• Stronger planning controls are needed to restrict and control land clearing andvegetation removal.• Many people have a lack of knowledge about the environment and poor landmanagement skills.• It is important to maintain the ‘green wedge’.• Indigenous planting should be encouraged and suitable areas set aside within newdevelopment to provide for landscaping opportunities.• New development should be sited and designed to minimise the impact on theenvironment and the character of the area.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 23

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• The water of the Diamond Creek needs to be improved and measures implemented toachieve this.• Any infrastructure works should have minimum impact on the natural environment.Community Values - Natural EnvironmentSome of the values raised by the community in relation to the natural environment can bedirectly attributed to the issue of development and its potential detrimental impacts on theenvironment. Some of the values expressed by the community in reference to theenvironment mirror those values within the settlement and housing section:• maintenance and enhancement of the natural environment including creek areas,conservation areas and private property;• retention of bush woodland character;• improve water quality of the creeks and prevent further degradation;• retain definition of the township edge;• indigenous plants should be encouraged where any landscaping is required orproposed by landowners/developers;• vegetation clearing should be minimised where possible, particularly maturevegetation;• planting and revegetation of creek banks and conservation areas should beundertaken;• future development should allow for the retention of trees and provide adequateareas for future planting of indigenous trees;• weeds should be eradicated and planting of exotic plants discouraged;• private property owners should take some responsibility for appropriate landmanagement;• open space areas and conservation areas should be maintained and enhancedthrough further landscaping and protective measures;• any new development should have minimal impact on the existing landscape(vegetation removal, effect of sight lines, views etc); and• any application for development should have regard to the NEROC Report and theDiamond Creek Sub-catchment Local Action Plan.Comment on Draft Strategy – Natural EnvironmentFrom the responses it would appear that respondents were generally in support of thestrategic directions contained in this section, however more must be done to protect andenhance the natural environment.Some of the comments made in response to this section of the Strategy include:• More needs to be done to maintain the environment. There is currently too muchland clearing, removal of native vegetation and planting of exotic plants in localgardens (2 respondents);• Protect habitat areas (2 respondents);• More funding needs to be set aside to aid weed control and revegetation programs (2respondents);Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 24

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• The environment is of a high priority and should be protected ( 1 respondent); and• Hurstbridge’s environment is being endangered by plans for significant growth (10+respondents).The main criticism of the draft document is that more specific actions andrecommendations need to be included in the Hurstbridge Strategy to achieve the statedobjectives. This has been done in the revised document.Community Views - Built EnvironmentA wide range of views were expressed by the community outlining the current problemswith the Main Road design, and possible actions that could be implemented to improve thestreetscape.• The intermingling of residential uses and commercial uses along the Main Road isappealing.• Encourage retail development along Main Road and discourage new residentialdevelopment.• Scouts bottle depot and adjoining truck depot should be relocated and the sitedeveloped.• Township centre is spread out along the Main Road over a long distance discouraginggreater pedestrian movement and encouraging greater car usage.• Get rid of the old Telstra yard, vacant service station and rural feed store which arean eyesore.• Open up the area at the back of the existing shops facing onto Fergusons Paddock forrestaurant and other uses.• Historic Bank building at Allwood House should be relocated so it stands as aseparate feature.• Any landscaping proposal for the Main Road should incorporate indigenous groundcover.• Better maintenance of round-abouts, road reserves and public pedestrian pathways isrequired.• Landscaping along the Main Road needs to be improved and maintained.• Leases of railway land for industrial/commercial uses should be reviewed uponcompletion and alternative uses explored.• Retain the historic value of the township.• Some existing sites/buildings clash with ‘themes’ of the township (i.e. village theme) -should have more comprehensive guidelines in place to prevent similar types ofdevelopment.• New development should be sympathetic to the existing character of the area.• Should encourage some of the older ‘eye-sore’ buildings to improve their appearanceto the street through re-painting, landscaping etc.• Town should not be identified by any large signs which detract from the visualamenity.• Town entrances could be defined through use of sculptures etc.• Allwood House and its garden should be retained and better utilised by the localcommunity through lowering fence and improving pedestrian access.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 25

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Need an overall theme for the town.• Need consistent signage throughout the town to improve the image of the townshipcentre - replace modern signage with similar signs for all commercial developments.• Powerlines are intrusive and a problem with established trees along the Main Road.Given the prohibitive cost of underground cabling need to review types of treesplanted along Main Road.• Better maintenance of garden areas outside shops is needed.• More consistent landscaping is required along the Main Road, particularly north ofAnzac Avenue.• Greater uniformity of street lighting and street furniture is required consistent withthe theme for Hurstbridge.• Paving materials are ad hoc throughout the township centre and surfacing of pathsshould be reviewed.• Use of the vacant land between the milk bar and antique shop would be a bonus tothe township centre if used as an outdoor cafe.• Retention of existing trees is important.• Review additional heritage sites for protection.• The perceived weakness of the town being too spread out could be turned into apositive by developing separate but linked precincts e.g. upper, lower, village etc.Community Values - Built EnvironmentMany of the values raised by the community in relation to the built environment arerelated to the existing character of the area. Some of the values expressed by thecommunity in reference to the built environment are:• residential development should be site responsive and should complement theexisting streetscape and townscape character;• design guidelines should be implemented to guide residential development;• maintenance and enhancement of streetscapes, particularly Main Road;• protection of heritage buildings and places;• well designed and consistent street tree planting and landscaping of Main Road toprovide greater continuity;• signage within the Main Road precinct should be consistent and should be controlledto minimise visual clutter;• new development should respect the existing streetscape character with regard toform, architecture and historic integrity of the streetscape;• design and provision of street furniture should be uniform along the street; and• inappropriate use and development should be discouraged in the Main Road where itwill impact on the visual amenity of the township centre.Comment on Draft Strategy – Built EnvironmentMost of the comments received in relation to the built environment relate specifically to theMain Road concept plans contained within the draft Strategy. Responses have generallybeen supportive of the proposed changes and the strategic directions contained within theEnvironment section of the Strategy.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 26

Hurstbridge Township StrategyRespondents were generally in favour of introducing a set of design guidelines forbuildings, particularly for new buildings constructed along Main Road. A couple ofrespondents also supported the introduction of signage guidelines that would result insignage along Main Road being more consistent and coordinated and discourage theproliferation of signs.Other Main Road improvements that were supported by some people included:• Provision of a low fence around the reserve on the corner of Main Road and AnzacAvenue (1 respondent);• Retention of significant buildings along Main Road(3 respondents); and• Revegetation of railway land and surrounding areas (6 respondents).There were some suggestions contained in the draft, however, which were not supported bya number of people and these include:• Uniform street furniture (2 respondents);• Removal of some older buildings including the old bank next to Allwood House andgarage on the corner of Arthurs Creek and Main Roads (3 respondents);• Removal of shop buildings located on railway land, east of the train station (1respondent); and• Inclusion of site within the proposed Heritage Overlay (1 respondent).Changes to address dot points 2 and 3 have been included in the revised document.4.3 Rural Land UseCommunity Views - Rural Land UseSome of the comments made by the community indicate that there are some conflictsbetween urban/residential and rural land uses. In particular the use and development ofthe abattoir to the north of Hurstbridge has attracted comment and the negative impacts ithas on the residential community.• We feel the abattoir is not appropriate for the area. Pig trucks going through thetownship centre are of no benefit to tourism, restaurants or cafes.• Pig trucks are spoiling the area – their stench ruins it for café patrons and sightseersto the area as well as locals.• I am sick of people whining about pig trucks and other trucks that add value to thecommunity.Other comments have been made in relation to the development of rural land on thetownship fringe for residential purposes. Most of the comments have been listed within thesettlement and housing section, although they also ultimately relate to land use.Community Values - Rural Land UseSome of the values expressed by the community in reference to rural land use are:• buffer areas should be provided/retained around the township;Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 27

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• new development should not exceed the capacity of existing infrastructure;• maintenance of the natural environment;• retention of the bush/woodland character;• prevent inappropriate/offensive agricultural uses close to the township; and• encourage tourism opportunities such as wineries etc.Comment on Draft Strategy – Rural Land UseFew comments were received in relation to rural land use, with most comments generatingsupport for the continuance of non-urban breaks between settlements and to contain urbandevelopment within a defined area.4.4 Economic DevelopmentCommunity Views - Economic developmentAlthough some sections of the community perceive that the existing township centre isviable in its current from, as an adjunct to the development issue, it is considered by othersthat population growth is essential to maintaining the viability of the economic base of thetown centre.More recently, there has been an emphasis from many sections of the community tonurture and encourage greater tourism in the area. People have identified thatHurstbridge has many assets including areas of cultural and historic significance, a mix ofshops aimed primarily at the tourist/visitor market, the natural environment and largeareas of open space, bed and breakfast accommodation and the establishment of vineyardsand wineries which are all ‘pull’ factors.Although large sections of the community are in favour of promoting tourism, it is felt thatthis should not be to the detriment of the town’s current service role to the localcommunity, nor should it have a detrimental impact on the environment.The following is a list of views and ideas that have been raised by the community inrelation to economic issues:• The present mix of retail and commercial development is generally adequate for localconvenience needs.• The trend towards back to back restaurants and cafes which is occurring in Elthamshould be avoided.• Lack of tourism services and commercial uses.• Encourage niche marketing and tourist type facilities within the retail sector.• Possible tourist use of the former sub-station.• The railway heritage be developed by beautifying the station and surrounds andintroducing steam train trips from the city.• The proposed heritage trail is supported and gives the town a wonderful opportunityto identify its significant sites.• Additional heritage sites be identified and protected through the planning scheme.• Hurstbridge needs a town square area with public conveniences, outdoor cafes, winebars, well-designed playgrounds etc.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 28

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Suitable economic strategies need to be developed e.g. heritage trails, walking,cycling and horse riding trails, wetland eco-tourism, community markets etc.• Public transport to surrounding villages e.g. St Andrews and Panton Hill be explored.• Provision of new employment opportunities e.g. through tourism.• Tourism could be an important economic base for Hurstbridge as an alternative tofurther residential development.Community Values - Economic DevelopmentSome of the values expressed by the community in reference to economic development are:• tourism development should be encouraged within the township and surroundingarea;• chain stores or commercialisation’ of retail outlets should be discouraged;• eco-tourism activities/attractions should be encouraged;• the service role of the township centre should be retained;• consolidation of the Main Road - signage, theme, colour and design;• provision of more tourist type activities in existing buildings along Main Road;• beautification of the Main Road; and• public transport linkages between other nearby settlements and tourist destinationsexploredComment on Draft Strategy – EconomicSubmissions were generally supportive of the strategic directions contained within thissection of the draft Strategy, however, support and promotion of tourism developmentappears to be somewhat of a contentious issue within the local community.Some of the comments raised in response to the issue of tourism include:• Less emphasis on tourism and more focus on basic business ( 2 respondents);• More emphasis and support for tourism development (6 respondents);• Do not support large tourist type accommodation (1 respondent); and• Use of railway substation for tourism be supported (3 respondents).Although most comments were in response to tourism related development, other issuesarising from submissions included the need for improved visitor facilities (e.g. toilets andseats), support for the consolidation of retail activities in Main Road, the need for a bankand petrol station and suitable locations for small service/industrial type industries.4.5 InfrastructureCommunity Views - InfrastructureMany of the issues raised in relation to infrastructure relate to the existingconstraints/capacity of physical infrastructure and the potential impact new developmentwill have on the capacity of this infrastructure.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 29

Hurstbridge Township StrategyFew roads are constructed to urban standards with only Main Road and some of the newersubdivided areas provided with sealed roads. In addition to the condition of the roadsmany residents have raised issues of pedestrian safety, parking, signage, and trafficconflicts as issues needing to be addressed by this report.Other issues raised in relation to traffic and access include the future role of MonashBridge, review of speed limits to the entrances of the town, pedestrian access around theoutskirts of the township centre, provision of new bicycle and walking trails, heavy trafficusing the township centre and flow of traffic along the Main Road.The lack of recreational services and facilities for youth has been raised often throughoutthe community consultation process. While there are a large number of open space andrecreation reserves, there has been minimal infrastructure provision for specific facilitiessuch as a BMX track or a youth community hall. Constraints for constructing suchfacilities include: availability of land, funding and environmental concerns.There are a number of opportunities, however, which have been raised and include afterhours social opportunities e.g. pub, coffee shop with a bar, take-away food store; use of anexisting or construction of a new building for youth programs; youth training facilities e.g.multi-media, music, drama and provision of other recreational facilities where possible.Many people also commented on the perceived lack of open space within the Hurstbridgearea and the need for more public amenities such as BBQ’s, rubbish bins and toilets toincrease patronage and improve the amenity of existing open space areas.The following comments have been made in relation to infrastructure:• Infrastructure needs improving.• Existing and services are inadequate to cope with increased development i.e. roads,footpaths and drainage.• Extension of sewerage and upgrading of roads are required.• It is imperative that mains gas is connected to the township.• Review the location and type of pedestrian crossing near the Post Office on MainRoad.• Push button lights needed to assist pedestrian movement at the crossing near thePost Office.• Review the school crossing as currently a hazard to pedestrians outside school hours.• Level of pedestrian crossings and walking paths along some roads leading toHurstbridge township centre and railway are dangerous.• Improve pedestrian linkages between residential areas and the Main Road, includingtrails along open space areas.• Provide more pedestrian crossings/pedestrian refuges along the length of Main Roadand other hazardous streets to improve pedestrian safety.• The volume and speed of traffic along Main Road is a hazard to users of the towncentre.• Need to traffic calming measures along Main Road to reduce the speed of traffic.• Parking is generally adequate in amount, however needs better signage to increaseawareness.• Additional car spaces are required.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 30

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Unconstructed car parking next to the butcher and primary school should be sealedand landscaped.• Car parking is considered adequate, however any new development should berequired to provide maximum number of spaces as required per the planning scheme.• Inappropriate ingress and egress from the railway station car park, due in part to thedevelopment on the southern corner blocking motorists views.• Provide a new access to the station car park from the Parker Road roundabout toprovide better access to and from the station.• Provide commuter car parking on the western side of the train station to reducetraffic of Main Road and improve commuter access to station.• Main Road should be widened to allow sufficient room for safe parallel carparkingalong the Main Road, with sufficient room for planting bays to break up the visualimpact and allow sufficient room for bicycles to use the Main Road.• No more land from Fergusons Paddock should be used for additional carparking.• Pedestrian or vehicle access is required from the Main Road to Fergusons Paddock toimprove linkages between the park and the retail area.• Possibility to provide some parking to the rear of the shops to serve both shoppersand people using the recreation facilities. Any access or carparking should be welllandscaped and screened from the park.• Roads should be sealed in residential areas to decrease dust in summer and run-offand erosion in winter.• Some form of frequent public transport between Hurstbridge and Greensborough tolink with rail between Greensborough and the city.• Heavy vehicles use Main Road as a thoroughfare creating a hazard to motorist andpedestrians.• Alternative routes for heavy vehicles should be investigated.• Monash Bridge to remain as a single lane bridge. Social aspect of stopping andwaving on-coming traffic.• Existing bridge is historic and should be retained.• Duplication of Monash Bridge.• Monash Bridge to be retained and used as a pedestrian bridge if a new bridge isconstructed.• Restrict access to Monash Bridge to prohibit large heavy vehicles using the bridge.• Lower speed limits along Haleys Gully Road.• Double parking of buses is a problem.• A bus interchange is required possibly at the train station.• Lack of public amenities within the commercial area.• Town centre urgently needs youth related services, facilities and activities. Could beindoor facilities such as a hall or outdoor facilities.• Existing play equipment required upgrading and additional equipment for childrenarea needed.• Provision of a local swimming pool facility.• Public transport is an on-going problem with no bus services and limited rail service.• Extend the bike path from Diamond Creek to Hurstbridge.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 31

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Parklands need to have better facilities for children and families to use.• A multi-purpose sport centre - outdoor basketball court/blading/skating area.• Potential for a wide range of uses and development on the school site - existingcommunity facilities should be retained and maintained.Map 4 shows those the constraints and opportunities that the Transport ConsultativeCommittee identified in relation to transport and access within the town centre, many ofthese are outlined above. Map 5 shows the opportunities and constraints for the outlyingareas of the township.Community Values - InfrastructureSome of the values expressed by the community in reference to infrastructure are:• improved infrastructure provision;• safer pedestrian crossings and accessways;• provision of pedestrian paths that meet requirements of all sections of the communityincluding disabled and elderly;• improved car parking facilities - improve efficiency and reduce environmental impactfrom run-off;• improved safety for motorists using road network and parking facilities;• minimise environmental impact;• reduce traffic conflicts e.g. Monash Bridge;• provision of youth and child care facilities; and• provision of gas.Comment on Draft Strategy – InfrastructureThis section of the draft Strategy generated a large number of responses, with commentsprimarily focussed on the issues of the Main Road Concept Plans, Monash Bridge, by-passroad options and public open space.The Main Road Concept Plans were generally well received, with most respondentssupporting at least one section of the plan. Those ideas that were most supported byrespondents include:• Upgrades for railway land (10+ respondents);• Improved access and exposure to Fergusons Paddock (5+ respondents);• Improvements to pedestrian access and safety including central pedestrian refuges(10+ respondents);• Use of reduced speed limits along Main Road (5+ respondents); and• Improvements to existing pedestrian crossings (10+ respondents).Those concepts that were the least supported by respondents include:• The narrowing of some sections of Main Road to slow the traffic; and• Over-use of pedestrian refuges.Additional suggestions made to improve the layout and safety of Main Road include:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 32

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Use of brick paving through the town centre; and• Discourage abattoir trucks from using Main Road.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 33

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 4 transport - town centreNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 34

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 5 transportNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 35

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe preferred option for Monash Bridge also appears to be a contentious issue, with justover half of those responding to the community response form in favour of Option 3 - dualcarriage way and preservation of the existing bridge. Most of the other respondents were infavour of Option 1 – retention of the Monash Bridge in its current form. Only 2 people werein favour of constructing another single lane bridge.Other comments made in regard to the Monash Bridge included provision of better signageand flashing warning lights. A number of respondents also stated that any improvementsto the existing bridge or construction of a new bridge should have minimal impacts on theenvironment and be sensitively designed to protect and enhance the Monash Bridge.A significant number of respondents also stated their concern over the possibility of abypass route being constructed in or around the town. Numerous reasons were stated andincluded environmental impacts, impact on quality of life, increased traffic and proposedroute through built up residential areas. Interestingly a number of people supportedbypass routes, with many of these respondents offering alternative routes both in andaround the town.Those respondents in favour of a bypass route generally anticipated that the bypass routewould prevent/deter heavy articulated vehicles travelling through the town centre.Another way to control the number of heavy vehicles travelling through the town centre isto provide an alternative route, which was also supported by a number of respondents.A number of comments were also made in response to public open space within thetownship, which included the need for more amenities and facilities, improved directionsignage and lighting along pedestrian paths.A few respondents were also concerned that there were no specific recommendationsrelating to community services and the need for facilities for the youth and elderly, andupgrading of existing facilities such as the community hall which has poor heating andcooling facilities. These issues have been noted and referred to Council’s Community andLeisure Services Section.Key Points - Community Consultation Outcomes• No consensus regarding the extent of any residential development.• The protection of the character of the township and the promotion of good design.• Protection of the environment and actions to address environmental problems.• Protection of the rural identity of Hurstbridge.• Economic development, particularly tourism, provided environmental values aremaintained.• Improvements to physical and social infrastructure.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 36

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5. Township StrategyThis section presents the township Strategy. Options associated with some issues arepresented with recommendations on the preferred strategy.5.1 Settlement and HousingSettlement and Housing ObjectivesThe objectives for settlement and housing in Hurstbridge the have been derived from ananalysis of a number of sources including consideration of State and Local Planning PolicyFrameworks and key issues arising from the community consultation process. The keyobjectives for housing and settlement in Hurstbridge are:• To maintain the rural character and environmental qualities of the township;• Provide a range of housing types to meet the needs and preferences of thecommunity;• Integrate residential use and development with community, commercial andrecreation areas and transport systems;• To ensure that any residential development is of a type that minimises the impact onthe natural environment and rural land uses;• To ensure that any land identified for residential development has, or can beprovided with, a suitable level of infrastructure services; and• To promote a defined urban edge to the township.Township Development Assessment ProcessA fundamental objective of the Hurstbridge Township Strategy is to determine whether anyfurther development is necessary and why any further development should/should not besupported. Following from this discussion and analysis it is then necessary to determinewhether any land is suitable to be developed for further residential growth.In order to firstly assess the necessity for further residential development in Hurstbridgeand secondly identify the suitability of land in Hurstbridge for future residentialdevelopment, a detailed analysis and assessment of land potentially suitable for residentialdevelopment has been assessed against the following factors:1. Strategic - is the provision of land for residential development consistent with local,municipal and regional planning policy?2. Environmental - is the land suitable for development considering its environmentalqualities (e.g. flora and fauna) and constraints (e.g. wildfire and flood)?3. Infrastructure - is the land able to connect to, or be provided with, adequatephysical services (reticulated or on-site) at reasonable cost and no detrimentalenvironmental impact?4. Social and Economic - will the development of the land, and its location, provideaccess to, and assist in supporting, local community and commercial services andfacilities?This analysis will identify the underlying strategic principles that will be used to determinewhether any further residential development should be supported in Hurstbridge. Whereany further residential development is supported, it will also determine the mostappropriate location, density and form of any such development.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 37

Hurstbridge Township StrategyBefore land can be considered suitable for residential development it must be assessedagainst these four factors.Township Development OptionsAs part of the community consultation process, a number of development options for theprovision of future residential development in Hurstbridge have been identified. Eachoption needs to be considered against the four factors outlined above to determine thesuitability of each of these options in meeting the preferred outcomes detailed in thisstrategy.It is recognised that there is limited vacant land available for additional residentialdevelopment in Hurstbridge, although there are opportunities for further infilldevelopment within the existing Township Zone. Land capability constraints, areas ofenvironmental value and infrastructure limitations are the basis for the limited landavailability.Through the community consultation process, four possible options were identified forfuture residential growth in Hurstbridge:1. No growth or allowing only limited development of existing vacant lots with nochange in township zones or minimum subdivision sizes;2. Intensification of residential development through development of vacant sites andan increase in density within existing residential areas; or3. Moderate growth - allowing some expansion of residential (or low density residential)development into a small number of the adjoining rural areas.4. Substantial growth – involving the residential subdivision of large areas or corridorsof land in the outlying rural areas.The following sections provide a strategic and technical analysis in helping to determinefirstly whether any further residential development should be supported in Hurstbridgeand secondly to help identify what land, if any, may be suitable for further residentialdevelopment.Part of the analysis will consider the concept of the ‘urban fringe’ and the use of planningcontrols to control the type and density of development on the fringe of urban areas andnon-urban areas. A discussion of fringe treatments will also assist in helping to determinewhich if any of the four options above are suitable options for HurstbridgeA brief discussion providing arguments for both supporting and not supporting each of theabove options is provided at the end of this chapter.Strategic AssessmentThe consideration of residential development as part of the Strategy is done in recognitionthat the Strategy has been prepared in the context of the Nillumbik Municipal StrategicStatement (MSS).The MSS which forms part of the Local Planning Policy Framework outlines Council’svision for sustainable land use and natural resource management in the Shire. It respondsto a range of environmental, social and economic factors that shape the Shire. Furthermorethe MSS outlines the objectives and strategies which need to be implemented to achieve thedesired land use and natural resource management vision. The objectives and strategies ofthe MSS must be considered in combination.A major aim of the MSS is to contain urban development and maintain non-urban breaksbetween settlements. Key strategies contained in the MSS to achieve the objective ofNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 38

Hurstbridge Township Strategycontaining residential development include opposing the rezoning of land for urban or lowdensity residential purposes, unless supported by the framework plan or Council Strategy.In this sense, the preparation of the Hurstbridge Township Strategy is the process for adetermination of whether additional residential land be made available.In relation to housing and settlement within the Shire the MSS states “The maintenance ofexisting settlement pattern consisting of distinct urban areas and clearly defined ruraltownships surrounded by non-urban areas is critical to the ongoing sustainability of theShire of Nillumbik as a ‘green wedge’ municipality. Expansion of townships intosurrounding areas is contrary to the ‘green wedge’ concept and needs to be addressedthrough township strategies.”The five objectives contained in the Settlement and Housing section of the MSS areintended to result in realistic expectations of land potential by helping to identify preferredareas within the Shire for future residential use and development and to ensure themaintenance of the Shire as a green wedge municipality.The MSS states furthermore, “State Planning Policy states that ‘outward metropolitangrowth must be confined to designated growth areas…’ The Shire of Nillumbik is located onthe fringe of metropolitan Melbourne and it is noted that it does not form part of adesignated growth corridor. Outward metropolitan development, therefore, will not be asignificant feature of the municipality.”Some residential development in Hurstbridge may be suitable provided that, among otherthings, it can be demonstrated to be consistent with the MSS. Any development ofHurstbridge, however, will be minor in comparison to major designated growth areas inDiamond Creek, Plenty and Greensborough. Large sections of undeveloped land has beenzoned for residential and low-density residential development in these areas, as part of theintroduction of the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme.Objective 1 of the Settlement and Housing section of the MSS seeks to ‘provide forresidential development which meets the projected increase of the number and type ofhouseholds within the municipality while respecting local community and environmentalvalues through the locality and site responsive consideration and design.’A key strategy to meet this objective is ‘to ensure that anecdotal figures do not drivestrategic planning decisions for the Shire, as population growth in the Shire is notpredicted to be substantial’. Current assessment of residential and rural-residential landindicates that there is adequate land supply to meet the projected growth in the shortmediumterm. This issue will be further discussed in light of the Housing Strategy.The attractiveness and lifestyle qualities of Hurstbridge are likely to attract newdevelopment no matter how much land is made available. However, given theenvironmental and infrastructure constraints on available land in Hurstbridge, it isdifficult to simply project growth based on existing population and housing trends.Another key strategy identified in the MSS to meet the above objective is ‘to ensure thatany medium density housing is focussed in areas with good access to commercial andcommunity services, public transport, open space and where appropriate, where suitableinfrastructure is available’. Furthermore, support for the rezoning of any land withinHurstbridge to provide for additional residential development should have consideration tothe proximity of the said land to services such as public transport, open space, and othercommunity services, which is in keeping with current State and Council policy.Objective 2 of the MSS is “To contain urban development and maintain non-urban breaksbetween existing urban areas and townships, and between townships.” This is a keystrategy to protect and maintain the ‘green wedge’. The maintenance of non-urban breaksbetween townships and settlements has been a key element of strategic land use planningNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 39

Hurstbridge Township Strategypolicy over the past few decades. To protect the economic, social and environmentalbenefits provided by the non-urban areas within the Shire, and around Hurstbridge, theyhave to be managed appropriately.One of the key strategies identified in the MSS to meet this objective is to containresidential development within existing urban zones in accordance with the frameworkplan and township strategy plans. The forthcoming Metropolitan Strategy will also provideguidance on how best to protect and maintain non-urban areas within the Shire.If any further rezoning of land for residential development is to be supported, any landproposed to be rezoned should be located to ensure that the expanse of non-urban areabetween Hurstbridge and other nearby settlements, particularly Wattle Glen being theclosest settlement, is not further diminished. Maintenance and protection of these nonurbanareas is of particular importance where the land is of environmental significance orsupports productive farmland.Providing for residential development of a limited scale, in accordance with environmentalobjectives and local character, may provide a counterbalance to allowing additionaldevelopment in rural and bushland areas. In terms of maintaining breaks betweendeveloped areas, this can be achieved if the form of development is infill or located withinwell defined extensions of the township area.Objective 3 of the Settlement and Housing section is ‘to consolidate and sustain existingurban and township character.’ This objective sets a parameter that any development mustbe centred around, in this case, an existing township. Therefore the rezoning of anyadditional land for residential development should result in the consolidation of theexisting township boundaries.Furthermore, the provision of a limited amount of land that results in a more defined urbanboundary should serve to counter any justification for residential development in areas thatare isolated or separate from an urban or township area, including requests for ad hocresidential rezonings.Although Hurstbridge is separated into two distinct sections east and west of the DiamondCreek it is considered that the boundaries between the urban and non-urban land uses aregenerally well defined. There has been minimal small-lot rural-residential subdivisionbeyond the current perimeter of the township zone, which has facilitated the maintenanceof well-defined township boundaries.There are perhaps two exceptions where past planning provisions have allowed theinappropriate subdivision of land into small lots beyond the current township boundaries.These are the Fawkner Crescent subdivision west of the township and the CarolineCrescent subdivision north of the township. Both subdivisions consist of lots approximately0.4 hectare in area and were subdivided prior to the introduction of more stringentplanning controls in the 1970’s.Incorporation of these areas of land into the township boundary would necessitate theinclusion of additional sections of non-urban land separating these low-density subdivisionsfrom the township in order to maintain clear definition of the township boundaries. Anyrezoning of this land however, would need to have consideration to the other objectivescontained in the MSS, other Council strategies and policies.Objectives 4 and 5 reinforce the point that the type of development must be of high qualityand promote energy efficient design.Council’s Housing Strategy, adopted by Council in April 2001, provides a framework forCouncil decisions affecting housing and settlement in the Shire. It will guide decisionsabout the location and type of dwellings required to meet the housing needs of residents ofNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 40

Hurstbridge Township Strategythe Shire over the next 10 to 20 years. The Strategy was developed in the context of theState Planning Policy, the MSS and the Council Plan following analysis of population,housing and settlement patterns and land supply in the Shire.The Strategy recognises that there are limited ‘greenfield’ sites available for developmentand that any further significant rezoning of land on the urban fringe to allow residentialdevelopment is not anticipated and is unlikely to be supported. The Housing Strategystates that, “The Shire of Nillumbik is a limited growth area. There is sufficient residentialland available to accommodate projected population increases to at least 2011. In themedium to long term, however, the current trend which projects 4,538 more households by2021 is unlikely to continue. As the current residential land is developed andredevelopment and infill opportunities are taken up, it is anticipated that the populationwill stabilise and then decline…”The Housing Strategy has six (6) key objectives. For each objective a number of preferredoutcomes and actions to achieve these outcomes have been identified. Key objectives andresponding actions particularly relevant to Hurstbridge include:1. Housing in Appropriate Locations – oppose future rezoning of land on the Shire’s urbanfringe unless part of a comprehensive planning strategy; support rating policies toencourage residential development of vacant residential land; identify opportunities forresidential intensification in areas close to public transport, commercial centres andcommunity facilities and facilitate and promote mixed developments in Township andMixed Use zones.2. Housing Diversity – Investigate sites suitable for infill development, redevelopmentand change of use to residential, close to facilities and services and identify surplusGovernment and other public land and, where possible, encourage redevelopment toprovide a variety of dwellings and tenures.3. Supporting Housing Choice – Take public transport routes and walking and cyclinglinks into account when planning new subdivisions.It is considered that some limited residential growth in Hurstbridge may contribute toachieving the objectives and strategies of the MSS. However, any development will alsoneed to have regard to the environmental, rural, economic and infrastructure objectivesand strategies detailed in the MSS and other Council policy and strategies.Investigation AreasFor the purpose of the environmental and infrastructure evaluation, an assessment hasbeen made of nine (9) potential residential areas in Hurstbridge. Map 6 indicates thelocation of investigation areas.All of these sites are located on the periphery of the existing Township Zone boundary, andare located within the study area boundary. The range of sites enables a comparativeanalysis to be undertaken.The sites were also selected in accordance with the recommendation of the AdvisoryCommittee and Panel, that no land outside the study area be considered for furthersubdivision. As stated previously, approximately 20 submissions were made to the newformat planning scheme relating to land in the Hurstbridge area seeking to have landrezoned or have provisions changed to provide for further residential development.Combined, these submissions relate to land with an approximate total area ofapproximately 185 hectares. The investigation areas include land subject to submissionsthat are within the study area, plus adjoining land where applicable.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 41

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe following table provides a summary of the main characteristics of each area:Table 1: Investigation AreasSite No. Location No. of ExistingPropertiesIndicativeSite Area1 Former Diamond Valley1 2.5 haSecondary College2 Meander Road 1 10 ha3 Haleys Gully Road/ Hurst Road 2 15 ha4 Bingley Avenue 34 40 ha5 Hurstbridge – Arthurs Creek Rd 1 14 ha6 Heidelberg – Kinglake Road 15 20 ha7 Flat Rock Road 5 30 ha8 Heather Avenue 12 35 ha9 Christians Road 6 40 haArea 1 – Diamond valley Secondary College SiteNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 42

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 6 – Investigation areasNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 43

Hurstbridge Township StrategyEnvironmental AssessmentIf residential growth is to be allowed in Hurstbridge it must be on the basis of developmentaccording with environmental capability and not having a detrimental impact on theenvironmental processes and character qualities in the area. This is consistent withcommunity preferences expressed in meetings and submissions for this Strategy. It is alsoconsistent with Council's policy expressed in the MSS and Council’s obligations underplanning and environmental legislation.The key environmental factors to address in considering additional residential growth arethe maintenance of environmental:• processes (water filtration, vegetation regeneration, soil formation, faunareproduction and the like); and• qualities (water quality, biodiversity, natural landscape and the like).Land use and development that does not impact on these environmental factors, or canmake a positive contribution to them, may be suitable.The method used for the assessment of environmental capability is a ‘sieve’ mappingprocess that combines information on:• ridgelines;• waterways;• land subject to inundation;• tree cover;• slope greater than 30 per cent;• wildfire hazard; and• faunal habitat.These environmental factors represent either sensitive environmental features or someform of environmental hazard that exists. It should be noted that the assessment does notinclude soil. Generally, the geological and soil information available for Hurstbridge is notat a scale suitable for application in such an assessment. Further assessment of soilconditions (for stability and, if necessary, effluent disposal capacity) would be requiredbefore development occurs.This relatively simple, yet effective, mapping exercise combines the 7 environmentalfactors. Different areas of land are then allocated a score of between 0 and 5. No landreceives a score higher than 5. This is because some of the factors are mutually exclusive,i.e. a ridgeline cannot also be a waterway, nor land with a 30% slope be subject toinundation. Generally scores can be categorised as:• 0-1 no or limited constraints;• 2-3 moderate constraints; and• 4-5 high level of constraints.The overall result for the land capability is shown on Map 7. It should be noted that theflora assessment below has not been incorporated into this map.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 44

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 7 – environmental constraintsNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 45

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWhere the environmental constraints are moderate or high, development needs to beminimised or not allowed at all. In some instances design and siting measures can be putin place to avoid or mitigate any impact on (or from) these environmental factors. That is,land with a moderate score may be able to be developed, however, significantenvironmental protection works, engineering works and costs would probably be required.A description of environmental features appears in Section 6 of this document.Environmental Capability ResultsThe overall result for environmental capability indicates that there are three (3) areaswhere environmental constraints are low, these are:• Area 1 -Former Diamond Valley Secondary School site• Area 6 – Heidelberg-Kinglake Road• Area 9 – Christian Road southPlease note - these are general descriptions of the areas. Some areas with moderate to highconstraints are located within these areas.There are four (4) areas where constraints are medium:• Area 3 - Haleys Gully Road;• Area 4 - Bingley Avenue and Wattle Tree Road• Area 5 - Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road; and• Area 7 - Flat Rock Road.There are two (2) general areas where constraints are high:• Area 2 – Meander Road South - the southern end of Meander Road; and• Area 8 – Heather AvenueFlora AssessmentThe second part of the environmental evaluation is a vegetation assessment. Anassessment of the vegetation and conservation quality has been made for each investigationsite. Information was gathered through site inspections and use of historical information.A description of the categories used to determine vegetation and conservation quality arelisted below.Vegetation Quality:• Very Poor - Ground layer almost totally comprising introduced species, few if anyindigenous (plant) species present, only isolated if any remnant trees.• Poor - Ground layer mostly comprising introduced species, weed invasions typicallysevere, indigenous species present mostly more disturbance tolerant grasses. Treecanopy often reduced to isolated trees.• Medium - Indigenous species conspicuous in ground layer, or if infrequent thenparticularly diverse, usually with a range of herbaceous flora still present. Treecanopy sometimes partly cleared, or if extensively cleared then ground layerdominated by native species.• High - Indigenous species dominant in ground layer (usually exceeding 50% ofperennial cover) and a substantial portion of diversity retained. Unless the groundNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 46

Hurstbridge Township Strategylayer is remarkably intact, the tree canopy is usually relatively intact (particularly inforest situations), even if of regrowth character. This latter character is consideredless important in woodland habitats, per se than the understorey. The reality is that‘old growth’ vegetation is almost non-existent in the foothills north-east ofMelbourne, as a consequence of prior timber removal activities, and the regrowthnature of the vegetation makes it important, even if its habitat values are reduced bythe loss of old trees.Conservation Quality:While degraded sites may provide poor habitat for much of the fauna, the ratings do notoverride the possibility of the use of a site by significant fauna such as invertebrates orsome bird species. The assessments do take into account the depletion or rarity of thefeatures represented at the site - e.g. if a community is rare or threatened or uncommonspecies are present, a site can be of medium to high conservation value even if thevegetation is quite degraded.• Low - Original ecosystem virtually completely displaced by introduced species,habitat apparently (in the absence of restoration works) of minimal value for otherthan common disturbance tolerant species.• Medium - While habitat quality is substantially reduced, either a reasonable range orcover of native species is still present, or if highly degraded, the communityrepresented is severely depleted and relatively intact examples are rare to nonexistent.• High - Denotes that the site is important in the context of contributing to retention ofbiodiversity on at least the local to regional scale. This rating is applied where eitherthe indigenous vegetation is relatively intact or the site provides valuable habitat forrestricted species or communities.• Very High - Used to denote exceptional examples of high quality habitat or the knownpresence of threatened species.Area 1 - Diamond Valley Secondary College SiteFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly supporting Riparian Forest and Plains Grassy Woodland (c. 50% each).Vegetation ConditionCleared and degraded (i.e. supporting virtually totally introduced ground cover, primarilypasture species), but abutting remnant bushland to west.Vegetation QualityVery poor.Significant FeaturesRelatively undeveloped site currently provides a buffer to significant bushland to the west.More intensive development will increase pressure on the adjacent bushland (e.g. throughedge effects such as dispersal of environmental weed seed from gardens via birds).Potential for restoration of woodland dominated by Blakely’s Red Gum and strengtheningof habitat corridor along creek. While blackberry invasion along the creek adjacent to thesite is severe, a number of significant plant species persist along this section of stream.Conservation QualityNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 47

Hurstbridge Township StrategyOn-site values low, but see comments above.Area 2 - Meander Road (South)Former Vegetation TypesMostly Grassy Dry Forest (c. 80%), residue Valley Grassy Forest with relatively small areaof Riparian Forest.Vegetation ConditionVery good in eastern section, poorer in western part where grazed and mostly cleared.Vegetation QualityHigh in Valley Grassy Forest and adjacent Grassy Dry Forest in eastern section. RiparianForest with heavy blackberry infestation but retaining significant species. Quality poor ingrazed Red Box to west.Significant FeaturesVery good quality Valley Grassy Forest abutting one of the best sections of creek in thetownship area, despite presence of blackberries. Many regionally significant speciesincluding orchids, ferns and herbs. Matted Flax-lily (Dianella amoena) possible withinValley Grassy Forest. Buffer areas provided by surrounding land-use and residual even ifsomewhat tenuous linkage to other bushland areas.Conservation QualityVery high, lower in western section.Area 2a - Meander Road (North)Former Vegetation TypesMostly Grassy Dry Forest (c. 70%), residue Valley Grassy Forest with small area of CreeklineHerb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionGrazed and extensively partly cleared. Largely pasture and open trees, but some areas atleast with remnant ground-layer, including some Valley Grassy Forest.Vegetation QualityPoor to medium.Significant FeaturesArea still retains some remnant Valley Grassy Forest and Grassy Dry Forest vegetation,but relatively degraded compared with other local examples.Conservation QualityLow, to medium in some less altered sections.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 48

Hurstbridge Township StrategyArea 3 - Haleys Gully RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly supporting Valley Grassy Forest and Grassy Dry Forest (c. 50% each).Vegetation ConditionOverstorey at least partly cleared over substantial portion and formerly grazed, butground-layer still predominantly native and retaining a reasonable diversity, especially onhigher slopes.Vegetation QualityMainly medium (to poor on some lower slopes).Significant FeaturesRemnant Valley Grassy Forest (Yellow Box over Kangaroo Grass dominated understorey).Very few remnants of higher than medium quality persist anywhere.Conservation QualityHighArea 4 - Haleys Gully Road and Wattle Tree RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly supporting Box-Ironbark Forest (c. 30%), Grassy Dry Forest (c. 50%), ValleyGrassy Forest (c. 20%), and small areas of Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionMajority of area still retaining overstorey, but fragmented into many small holdings withpatchy disturbed/developed areas, and variable in understorey quality (e.g. throughinvasion of weeds such as Vernal Grass and loss of understorey diversity through frequentslashing or horse grazing).Vegetation QualityPoor to high (mostly medium).Significant FeaturesBox-Ironbark Forest is a poorly reserved, localised and restricted community in thefoothills north-east of Melbourne. Private land occurrences are consequently important.Formerly with Charming Spider Orchid, but population has apparently been destroyed inrecent years.Conservation QualityMedium to high (especially larger blocks and in rear sections of current sub-divisions).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 49

Hurstbridge Township StrategyArea 5 - Hurstbridge - Arthurs Creek RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly supporting Valley Grassy Forest (c. 70%), residue Grassy Dry Forest and (minor)Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionPartly cleared on lower slopes. Area is grazed, and has Sydney Black Wattle (Acaciadecurrens) invasion, but a native grassy understorey is still present over much of the block,especially on higher slopes. Approximately 10 - 15 species of orchid are still present (C.Beardsell, pers. comm.).Vegetation QualityMainly medium (to poor on parts of lower slopes).Significant FeaturesRemnant Valley Grassy Forest (as for Area 3 Haleys Gully Road/Hurst Road).Conservation QualityHighArea 6 - Heidelberg - Kinglake RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly mostly Valley Grassy Forest (c. 70%), with Grassy Dry Forest in south part ofeastern section, with minor and fringing Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionMostly cleared and degraded, but with some remnant patches of overstorey trees (primarilya small uncleared area of Grassy Dry Forest in the southern part); small areas withKangaroo Grass and sparse Yellow Box on northern edge north of the gully.Vegetation QualityMainly very poor, to poor to low in small patches.Significant FeaturesMinor values in remnant trees and Kangaroo Grass patches, but not particularlysignificant in an overall local context. While the Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland vegetationis severely degraded, this is true of nearly all examples, and some restoration potentialexists, particularly as remnant vegetation persist to the north of this small creek.Conservation QualityMostly low.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 50

Hurstbridge Township StrategyArea 7 - Flat Rock RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly primarily Grassy Dry Forest (c. 70%), with residue (mostly on eastern side)comprising Valley Grassy Forest and Herb-rich Foothill Forest, with small area of CreeklineHerb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionThe Grassy Dry Forest vegetation remains largely uncleared, other types, especially onlower slopes, at least partially cleared and grazed. Invasion of woody weeds (especiallyMontpellier Broom and Boneseed) is severe along the closed extension of Anzac Avenue, butis at least mostly suppressed by slashing within the adjacent private land area. Whilefrequent slashing suppresses the mid-storey and potentially a range of ground-layerspecies, in this instance slashing is also preventing far more severe impacts from the woodyweeds present.Vegetation QualityMainly medium (to poor on lower slopes and some of the more weedy areas), high in lessdisturbed areas (mainly within Grassy Dry Forest).Significant FeaturesSome areas of Valley Grassy Forest / Herb-rich Foothill Forest are still of at least mediumquality. Part of larger area of contiguous remnant vegetation, which is of consistentlyhigher quality to south.Conservation QualityMostly medium to high.Area 8 - Heather Avenue (north)Former Vegetation TypesFormerly Grassy Dry Forest (c. 30%), Valley Grassy Forest, Box-Ironbark Forest and HerbrichFoothill Forest (c. 20% each), with small area of Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionArea is grazed and cleared in south-east section, with higher quality remnant vegetationnorth-west of the minor drainage line that traverses the area, especially on higher slopesand ridges.Vegetation QualityPoor in south-east, high in north-west section.Significant FeaturesDiverse range of habitats including Box-Ironbark Forest. Part of a larger area of remnantvegetation which includes areas 7, 8 and 9 and extends to Temple Ridge.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 51

Hurstbridge Township StrategyArea 8 - Heather Avenue (north) - ContinuedConservation QualityLow in south-east, high in north-west.Area 8a - Heather Avenue (south)Former Vegetation TypesBox-Ironbark Forest (c. 50%), Grassy Dry Forest and Herb-rich Foothill Forest (c. 20%each), small areas of Valley Grassy Forest and minor occurrence of Creek-line Herb-richWoodland.Vegetation ConditionArea is ungrazed and mostly comprises uncleared, high quality bushland. While prone toinvasion by woody weeds, these appear to be mostly still at relatively low levels. Disturbedareas are small and localised.Vegetation QualityMostly very high.Significant FeaturesAs for north-west part of 8 above. Relatively intact large area of bushland with diverserange of habitats, retaining mid-storey component, with extensive stands of Box-IronbarkForest. Diverse range of habitats including Box-Ironbark Forest. Potentially withCharming Spider Orchid (which occurs to near south of area).Conservation QualityVery high.Area 9 - Christian RoadFormer Vegetation TypesFormerly mostly Valley Grassy Forest (c. 80%), sometimes transitional to Grassy DryForest on upper slopes, with relatively small areas of Herb-rich Foothill Forest andRiparian Forest, and minor occurrences of Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland.Vegetation ConditionGrazed and mostly cleared, with small areas of remnant overstorey towards north-easternend, and flanking large patch of Herb-rich Foothill Forest on south-east side, and RiparianForest on western edge. The ground-layer still primarily comprises native grasses, withKangaroo Grass conspicuous and Common Tussock Grass on creek flats.Vegetation QualityMedium due to extensive areas of native grass, even if low in diversity.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 52

Hurstbridge Township StrategyArea 9 - Christian Road - continuedSignificant FeaturesExtensive stands of native grasses, contiguity to remnant vegetation.Conservation QualityMedium.Flora assessment SummationTable 2 provides a summary of the results from the flora assessment.Table 2: Flora Assessment SummationSite No. Vegetation Quality Conservation Quality1 Very Poor Low2 Medium - high Medium - very high3 Medium High4 Poor - high Medium - high5 Medium High6 Very poor Low7 Medium Medium - high8 Poor - high Low - very high9 Medium MediumNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 53

Hurstbridge Township StrategyInfrastructure AssessmentSite CharacteristicsAn assessment of the existing infrastructure has been made for each investigation area(except area 9) based on information provided by the relevant service authorities andthrough site inspections. In general, the Hurstbridge township is serviced by all basicservices except natural gas. Many of the roads in the area remain unsealed with open tabledrains to convey stormwater run-off. Only small areas of the township have any form ofpiped drainage network. The balance have open table drains and gullies to controlstormwater. The existing services have generally not been designed to cater for significantadditional residential growth.It has been assumed that any development within the areas outlined would be providedwith all basic services in accordance with the appropriate servicing requirements at thetime. These would include fully constructed and sealed roads, formal stormwater drainagesystems to adequately control flows, sewer mains, water mains, electricity andtelecommunications systems. Detailed design at the time of any subdivision anddevelopment may modify requirements, including options for ‘soft engineering’ solutions.The relevant service authorities that service this area have been contacted to determine theextent of upgrading of the existing infrastructure which would be required to cater for anyproposed residential expansion. These service authorities, and the respectiveinfrastructure for which they are responsible, are listed in the following table:Table 3: Service AuthoritiesAuthorityNillumbik Shire CouncilYarra Valley WaterEastern EnergyStratus NetworksTelstraMelbourne WaterInfrastructureRoad network and local drainageWater supply and sewerageElectricityNatural gasTelecommunicationsMain drainageArea 1 - Former Diamond Valley Secondary College SiteRoad AccessRoad access to this site is obtained from Greysharps Road which services this site and theadjoining reserve area. It would not be expected that the development of this site forresidential purposes would generate any extra traffic than the former use of the site as aschool. Road access to this site is therefore considered to be satisfactory.DrainageThis site generally drains toward the south west and the Diamond Creek with its westernboundary being the Diamond Creek.It would be expected that a portion of the site along the Diamond Creek would be subject toflooding and would therefore not be suitable for residential allotments.A significant proportion (as much as half) of this area is subject to flooding from DiamondCreek. Flood levels may be determined and provided if necessary (this being reliant onadditional survey and location details). Development of this area would require nomodification or construction of Melbourne Water’s assets, however Melbourne Water islikely to request that treatment for sediment and litter is incorporated into anydevelopment proposals.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 54

Hurstbridge Township StrategySewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that this site would be sewered directly into theHurstbridge Branch Sewer. A section of the Hurstbridge Branch Sewer would need to beupgraded to avoid surcharging of the system to cater for the increase in flows.Water SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water does not anticipate any problems with supplying this site from the existingsystem apart from the possibility of some minor upgrading of the mains in the immediatearea, details of which will depend on final development proposals.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that the development of this site could be serviced from a HighVoltage Spur Line within 200 metres of the site.Area 2 - Meander RoadRoad AccessRoad access to this site is obtained from Meander Road which is a local road traversing anexisting residential area. The road is sealed, edged with kerbs and has sufficient width fortwo way traffic but no allowance for vehicle parking on the sealed pavement. MeanderRoad as its name implies has a number of sharp bends and some sections with steepgrades.While a detailed traffic impact assessment is beyond the scope of this Strategy it isconsidered that any significant increase in traffic volumes on this road would require theupgrading of sections to improve the pavement width and safety. Any increases in trafficvolumes would also impact on the residential amenity of the street. If this site is to receivefurther consideration for development it is recommended that a traffic impact study shouldbe undertaken to determine the suitability of this road as the primary access.DrainageThis site generally drains towards the south east and the Diamond Creek with its easternboundary being the Diamond Creek. It would be expected that a portion of the site alongthe Diamond Creek would be subject to flooding and would therefore not be suitable forresidential allotments.Development of this area would require no modification or construction of MelbourneWater’s assets in regard to hydraulic capacity. However, in regard to environmentalrequirements, it is not a preferred option. Opportunity for the provision of treatment forsediment and litter is severely limited.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 55

Hurstbridge Township StrategySewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that this site would be sewered into the existing HighSchool Pump Station and directly into the Hurstbridge Branch Sewer. The storage volumeat the High School Pump Station would need to be increased to cater for the additionalflows along with a section of the Hurstbridge Branch Sewer which would need to beupgraded.Water SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water does not anticipate any problems with supplying this site from the existingsystem apart from some minor upgrading of the mains in the immediate area details ofwhich will depend on final development proposals.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area and StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that this area could be serviced from a High Voltage Spur Linewhich is located within 100 metres of the site. This main has an adequate rating to servicethe development of this area.Area 3 - Haleys Gully Road & Hurst RoadRoad AccessThis site has road access from Haleys Gully Road, Hurst Road. Haleys Gully Road is asealed arterial road, which would adequately service development of this site. Hurst Roadand Meander Road are local streets which are constructed with kerbing and sealedpavement. These roads could be utilised to service sections of the site when developed. Theincreased traffic may affect the residential amenity of the existing residents. Theinstallation of traffic control devices may need to be considered to control vehicle speeds. Itis recommended that should any significant use of Meander Road be considered that atraffic impact study be undertaken as part of the development of this site to determine theextent of works, if any, that would be required.DrainageThis site generally falls towards Haleys Gully Road and drains into open water coursesbefore eventually flowing into Arthurs Creek. A small southern section of the site drainstowards the existing Meander Road residential area. Meander Road is constructed withkerbing and has a piped drainage system to cater for run-off. The drainage systemgenerally within the Hurstbridge area hasn’t been designed to cater for any additionalrunoff associated with the residential development of new areas. A detailed analysis of thedrainage system would need to be undertaken to verify its capacity to cater for additionalrunoff but it is likely that some form of flow retardation facility may be required.The potential rezoning of this area to ‘Township A’ was taken into account when the HaleysGully Main Drain was constructed in the early 1980s. Preliminary investigation suggeststhat the drain’s design capacity will cope with such development. Melbourne Water islikely to request that treatment for sediment and litter is incorporated into any subdivisiondevelopment proposals.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 56

Hurstbridge Township StrategySewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that this site could be sewered into the existing sewermains in the adjacent residential areas and then by both the Arthurs Creek Pump Stationand the High School Pump Station. Modelling of the system by Yarra Valley Water hasdetermined that sections of the existing sewer mains would need to be upgraded to avoidthe system surcharging, resulting in sewerage spills. The Arthurs Creek Pump Stationwould need to be upgraded to cater for the additional flows and additional storage volumewould be required at the High School Pump Station.Water SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water does not anticipate any problems with supplying this site from the existingsystem apart from some minor upgrading of the mains in the immediate area, details ofwhich will depend on final development proposals.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that this area is currently serviced by High Voltage Feederlines which have adequate rating to service the development of this area.Area 4 - Haleys Gully Road & Wattle Tree RoadRoad AccessThis site is bounded by Haleys Gully Road on the south, Wattle Tree Road on the north andeast, Mountain View Road on the west and traversed by Bingley Avenue.Haleys Gully Road is an arterial road which would adequately service the development ofthe area proposed while the others are local roads.Wattle Tree Road currently has a sealed surface with open table drains to controlstormwater and services the adjoining existing residential area before this site. The road isgenerally winding and narrow with a number of sections which do not allow two way cartraffic to pass adequately.Mountain View Road is sealed with open table drains for part of its length and unsealed forthe balance. Again the section which is sealed is generally narrow with sections that do notpermit two way car traffic to adequately pass each other.Bingley Avenue is again sealed with open table drains.Depending on the layout adopted for a road network to service any development in thisarea it would be expected that the local road network would need to be significantlyupgraded to improve traffic safety.DrainageThe majority of this site drains toward the south and into a gully, which runs parallel withHaleys Gully Road, which in turn flows into the Diamond Creek.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 57

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe Haleys Gully Main Drain is not designed to cater for run-off from residentialdevelopment in this area. Such development would require an expensive upsizing of theMain Drain or a retarding basin upstream of Melbourne Water’s asset (which may be animpractical proposition due to road locations and terrain). In regard to environmentalrequirements, it is a ‘non-preferred’ option, as opportunity for the provision of treatment forsediment and litter appears to be limited.SewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that this site could be sewered into the Arthurs CreekPumping Station. To cater for the increased flows it would be necessary to upgrade theexisting pump station along with some of the sewers upstream and downstream of thepump station to avoid surcharging the system.Water SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water has indicated that due to the high elevation of this site a local pump stationwould be required to maintain adequate pressure in the system minor upgrading of themains in the immediate area may also be required to maintain supply.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that this area could be serviced from a High Voltage FeederLine which is adjacent to the area and has an adequate rating. A High Voltage Spur Linealso traverses the site and this would need to be upgraded to service the development ofthis area.Area 5 - Hurstbridge, Arthurs Creek Road & Wattle Tree RoadRoad AccessRoad access to this site could be obtained from Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road on the eastside and Wattle Tree Road, Hilltop Road and Victoria Street on the west side.Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road is an arterial road which would adequately service thedevelopment of the area proposed while the others are local roads.Wattle Tree Road currently has a sealed surface with open table drains to controlstormwater and services the adjoining existing residential area before this site. The road isgenerally winding and narrow with a number of sections which do not allow two way cartraffic to pass adequately.Hilltop Road is currently unsealed and would need to be sealed should it be used as accessfor any significant portion of the site.Victoria Street exists as a road reserve only and is not formed to a trafficable surface. Thisroad would need to be constructed should access from the proposed development area beobtained along this road.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 58

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDrainageThis site generally falls towards the east and drains towards Arthurs Creek.Development of this area would require no modification or construction of MelbourneWater’s assets in regard to hydraulic capacity, however, in regard to environmentalrequirements, it is a ‘non preferred’ option, as opportunity for the provision of treatment forsediment and litter appears to be limited.SewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that this site could be sewered into the Arthurs CreekPumping Station. To cater for the increased flows it would be necessary to upgrade theexisting pump station along with some of the sewers upstream and downstream of thepump station to avoid surcharging the system.Water SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water does not anticipate any problems with supplying this site from the existingsystem apart from the possibility of some minor upgrading of the mains in the immediatearea details of which will depend on final development proposals.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that there is two High Voltage Spur Lines which would need tobe upgraded to cater for development of this site.Area 6 - Heidelberg-Kinglake Road & Bambara RoadRoad AccessRoad access to this site could be obtained from Heidelberg-Kinglake Road, Cherry TreeRoad, Bambara Road and Mills Road.Heidelberg-Kinglake Road and Cherry Tree Road are sealed arterial roads which wouldadequately service the development of the area proposed while the others are local roads.Bambara Road is also sealed with open table drains to convey drainage water the conditionof which would appear to be suitable to cater for an increase in traffic the extent of whichwould need to be assessed when development plans are prepared.DrainageThis site generally drains in a northerly and then westerly direction directly into opengullies which flow towards the Heidelberg-Kinglake Road and then onto the DiamondCreek.Melbourne Water’s minimum requirements for infrastructure associated with developmentof this area are likely to be a reserve width of at least 30 metres along Melbourne Waterwatercourse No. 6304 and water quality treatment downstream of the developed area. Ifthis area were to be larger, its location and topography would provide potential for theNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 59

Hurstbridge Township Strategydevelopment of a drainage scheme. This would bring benefits associated with bestwaterway planning practices such as equitable funding of a retarding basin and waterquality treatment wetlands at the most suitable locations.SewerageThe response received from Yarra Valley Water did not specifically indicate the need toupgrade any existing infrastructure to service this site. It is therefore concluded that thesite could be adequately serviced by the existing sewers which service the existingBambara Road areaWater SupplyWater supply to this site can be obtained from the Panton Hill Zone. Yarra Valley Waterdoes not anticipate any problems with supplying this site from the existing system apartfrom the possibility of some minor upgrading of the mains in the immediate area details ofwhich will depend on final development plans.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that there is two High Voltage Feeder Lines adjacent to thearea and a High Voltage Spur Line which runs through the area all of which have anadequate rating to service the development of this site.Area 7 - Flat Rock RoadRoad AccessThis site can obtain road access from Flat Rock Road and also has frontage to the AnzacAvenue road reserve.Flat Rock Road is a collector road which is sealed with open table drains to collectstormwater. It currently has sufficient width to allow for two narrow traffic lanes in eachdirection. Depending on the extent of the proposed development area that uses this road itmay be necessary to consider its upgrading. It is recommended that this be subject to atraffic impact assessment once development proposals are in place.The site also has access to the Anzac Avenue road reserve which is not constructed past thefrontage of the proposed development area. Obviously this section of road would need to beconstructed should access be obtained from it. Anzac Avenue is sealed between Heidelberg-Kinglake Road and Taylor Road.DrainageThe majority of this site drains to an open gully which generally flows in northerlydirection parallel with Flat Rock Road and eventually into the Diamond Creek.There may be some potential to develop a Melbourne Water Drainage Scheme in thiscatchment if the area to be developed were larger. Irrespective to the development of aDrainage Scheme, the area’s topography provides only limited opportunity for developmentof a retarding basin site, which is likely to be required to ensure no increase in floodingalong Cherry Tree Road, Heidelberg-Kinglake Road or adjacent land. Water qualityNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 60

Hurstbridge Township Strategytreatment would be required downstream of any development and again, opportunity maybe limited because of the terrain.SewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that the majority of this site could be sewered into theArthur’s Creek Pumping Station. To cater for the increased flows it would be necessary toupgrade the existing pump station along with some of the sewers upstream anddownstream of the pump station to avoid surcharging the system.A small portion of the site which drains to the west can be serviced by the HurstbridgeBranch Sewer. A section of this main which would need to be upgraded to avoidsurcharging of the systemWater SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water has indicated that due to the high elevation of this site a local pump stationwould be required to maintain adequate pressure in the system minor upgrading of themains in the immediate area may also be required to maintain supply.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks do not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for it tobe in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that there is High Voltage Spur line adjacent to the area whichwould most likely require upgrading to cater for the increased demands.Area 8 - Heather Road & Dewar DriveRoad AccessThe roads which front this development area are all unsealed local roads which aregenerally not wide enough to allow construction of a two way sealed road without wideningof the road formation. It is considered that these roads would need to be sealed andwidened to provide an acceptable standard of access to the proposed development areaDrainageThe majority of this site drains to an open gully which generally flows in northerlydirection parallel with Flat Rock Road and eventually into the Diamond Creek.There may be some potential to develop a Melbourne Water Drainage Scheme in thiscatchment if the area to be developed were larger. Irrespective to the development of aDrainage Scheme, the area’s topography provides only limited opportunity for developmentof a retarding basin site, which is likely to be required to ensure no increase in floodingalong Cherry Tree Road, Heidelberg-Kinglake Road or adjacent land. Water qualitytreatment would be required downstream of any development and again, opportunity maybe limited because of the terrain.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 61

Hurstbridge Township StrategySewerageYarra Valley Water has indicated that the majority of this site could be sewered into theArthurs Creek Pumping Station. To cater for the increased flows it would be necessary toupgrade the existing pump station along with some of the sewers upstream anddownstream of the pump station to avoid surcharging the system.A small portion of the site which drains to the west can be serviced by the HurstbridgeBranch Sewer. A section of this main which would need to be upgraded to avoidsurcharging of the systemWater SupplyWater supply to this site is obtained from the Nutfield Clearwater Reservoir Zone. YarraValley Water has indicated that due to the high elevation of this site a local pump stationwould be required to maintain adequate pressure in the system minor upgrading of themains in the immediate area may also be required to maintain supply.GasThere is no natural gas currently available in the Hurstbridge township area. StratusNetworks does not expect the development of this area to generate sufficient demand for itto be in a position to recover the installation costs within normal funding policies.ElectricityEastern Energy has advised that there is High Voltage Spur Line which runs through thisarea which would most likely require upgrading to cater for the increased demands.Infrastructure SummationAny additional residential growth in Hurstbridge will require upgrading of the existinginfrastructure to cater for the increased loads and demands.Of the areas studied the areas 1 and 3 and to some extent areas 5 and 6 are the mostfavourable sites for expansion of existing residential areas in terms of minimising the needto upgrade infrastructure. Areas 1 and 3 are serviced by a good road network. Dependingon the layouts adopted for sites 5 and 6 these areas could also obtain main access from agood road network. Some upgrading of the other services would be required to supply theseareas.While the other areas could be developed for residential growth the works required toupgrade the services to cater for these areas are generally more extensive. This isparticularly so in the case of the road network where significant works would be requiredalong with in some cases a loss of amenity to the existing residents. Infrastructure worksrequired are likely to be expensive and have the potential to create significantenvironmental impacts.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 62

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 4 – Infrastructure Assessment of Investigation AreasSite Road Network Drainage Sewerage1 • Access from existing sealed roads • Primarily drains to existing Haleys Gully Main Drain. Existing system upgrading required• Existing system adequate.• Treatment for sediment and litter required.2 • Access from existing residential street. • Drains to Diamond Creek.Existing system upgrading required• Development expected to have significantimpact to residential amenity.• Existing hydraulic capacity adequate.• Non preferred option as opportunity for treatment forsediment and litter limited.3 • Access from existing sealed roads • Drains to Diamond Creek.• No modification of drains required.• Treatment for sediment and litter required.Existing system upgrading required4 • Access from existing sealed and unsealedroads some of which are narrow andwould need to be upgraded5 • Primary access obtained from existingsealed roads.• Wattle Tree Road would need upgradingif used for significant access.6 • Primary access could be obtained fromexisting sealed roads7 • Access obtained from existing sealed roadand road reserve with unformed road8 • Access obtained from unsealed roadswhich would require upgrading.• Primarily drains to existing open gully.• Existing system upgrading required.• Non preferred option as opportunity for treatment forsediment and litter limited• Primarily drains to existing open gully.• Existing hydraulic capacity adequate.• Non preferred option as opportunity for treatment forsediment and litter limited.• Primarily drains to existing open gully.• Existing system upgrading required.• Possible implementation of a drainage scheme.• Primarily drains to existing open gully.• Existing system upgrading required.• Primarily drains to existing open gully.• Existing system upgrading required.Existing system upgrading requiredExisting system upgrading requiredAdequate capacity availableExisting system upgrading requiredExisting system upgrading requiredNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 63

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 4 – Infrastructure Assessment of Investigation Areas ContinuedSite Water SupplyGas Electricity Telecommunications1 Adequate supply available No natural gas available Adequate supply available No details available2 Adequate supply available No natural gas available Adequate supply available within No details availableclose proximity3 Adequate supply available No natural gas available Adequate supply available within No details availableclose proximity4 Local pump required to increase No natural gas availablePart of system has adequate supply No details availablepressureavailable and balance would needupgrading.5 Adequate supply available No natural gas available Upgrading of existing lines required. No details available6 Adequate supply available No natural gas available Adequate supply available No details available7 Local pump required to increase No natural gas available Upgrading of existing lines required. No details availablepressure8 Local pump required to increasepressureNo natural gas available Upgrading of existing lines required. No details availableNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 64

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWillingness to DevelopThe realisation of residential growth relies on the willingness of land owners to develop.Given that only a small number of properties are deemed to have both low environmentaland infrastructure constraints, it is considered that where a majority of land owners do notwant to develop their properties, that these sites should not be included as preferredgrowth areas.To determine individual owner’s responses to potential growth, a short questionnaire wassent to landowners. The questionnaire asked landowners:• if they would like the opportunity to develop their land;• the estimated time-frame for development; and• preferred lot sizes if the land was to be developed.The questionnaire was not sent to landowners in areas where environmental andinfrastructure constraints were generally high. The questionnaire was also not sent tolandowners that had indicated a preference to develop by having made previousamendment requests.Area 6 contains 15 lots (14 landowners), 9 of which responded to the questionnaire. Sevenowners were in favour of having the opportunity to develop their land. Four of theserespondents stated that they would likely develop in a year, two within 2 to 10 years andone over 10 years. Most of the respondents stated that 4000m 2 (1 acre) was the preferredlot size for subdivision. One respondent stated a preference for an area less than 4000m 2 .Area 7 contains 5 properties, with 4 landowners responding to the questionnaire. Three ofthe respondents preferred that the area was not developed, with one respondent advisingthat they would only subdivide part of their property if necessary at a later date. Thefourth respondent was in favour of lot sizes of 4000m 2 .Area 9 contains 6 properties with 5 landowners responding to the questionnaire. Allrespondents were in favour of having the opportunity to develop their land at some stage.Three respondents stated they would likely develop in a year and the other two between 2to 5 years. Two respondents preferred lot sizes of 4000m 2 , two preferred lots of 1 hectarewith one respondent designating a 2 lot subdivision of approximately 2-4 hectares deemedappropriate for the site.Assessment SummaryThe environmental assessment identified that three areas in Hurstbridge have lowenvironmental constraints. The vegetation analysis identified that two sites have lowvegetation and conservation value (a third site has areas of both low and very high value).The infrastructure assessment identified four areas where existing infrastructure servicesare adequate or can be upgraded or provided without major costs. The willingness ofowners to develop has also been investigated. This section briefly collates this informationto identify potential areas that may be suitable for residential development.Area 1 – Diamond Valley Secondary College SiteThe site has low to medium environmental constraints and low vegetation andconservation value. The site has low infrastructure constraints, although suitabletreatment for litter and sediment would need to be incorporated into any development.Development would not extend to flood prone and habitat areas. At this stage the site isthe property of the Department of State Education. No final determination has been madeon the sale of the property. It is therefore considered premature to consider rezoning thesite until a determination has been made. In the event the land is privately sold, CouncilNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 65

Hurstbridge Township Strategywill, where appropriate, endeavour to work with the owner to achieve a desirable land useoutcome for the property.Overall development assessment – suitable (only a portion of the site)Area 2 – Meander RoadMeander Road has high environmental and infrastructure constraints. In particular thesite possesses areas of high to very high vegetation and conservation qualities. Althoughthere are some sections that are of a poorer quality, it is possible the site could be improvedthrough better land management practices and revegetation of the area with plantcommunities common to that area. In addition, the land has poor road access, withupgradings required to improve traffic management. There is also limited opportunity forthe provision of treatment for litter and sediment at this site.Overall development assessment - unsuitableArea 3 – Haleys Gully Road & Hurst RoadThe site has low to medium environmental constraints and low infrastructure constraints.Information contained in the flora survey indicates that the site contains vegetation of highconservation quality, including remnant Valley Grassy Forrest. Any residentialdevelopment of this site would have to consider the environmental constraints of the siteand may result in a significant proportion of the site remaining undeveloped to protect andenable regeneration of these plant communities, which are significant to the area.Overall development assessment – limited (subject to further investigation)Area 4 – Bingley Avenue, Wattle Tree RoadThis area has low to medium environmental constraints, medium to high conservationvalue and high infrastructure constraints. While parts of the area are have lowenvironmental constraints, overall it is considered that there are more suitable areas forfuture development. Although already developed at a low density, the northern area inparticular is located a considerable distance from the town and would require significantinfrastructure upgrades to allow for higher densities. In particular the road network wouldneed to be upgraded to improve traffic safety. Infrastructure for drainage, sewerage andwater supply would need to be upgraded to meet demand.Overall development assessment – unsuitableArea 5 – Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek RoadThis site has low to medium environmental constraints, with the site identified as havinghigh conservation qualities containing remnant areas of Valley Grassy Forrest. The sitehas medium infrastructure constraints with upgrading of access roads, drainage, sewerageand water supply required. Residential development should be discouraged along thecreeks as the opportunity for treatment of sediment and litter is limited and developmentoften has adverse affect on the health and quality of creek bed areas.Overall development assessment – limited (subject to further investigation)Area 6 – Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadThis site has low environmental constraints and medium infrastructure constraints withsome upgrading of infrastructure required. Although partially developed, the land islocated adjacent to the township areas and would form a logical extension of the area,providing land for infill development.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 66

Hurstbridge Township StrategyLand has access to a number of roads, two being main connector roads which areconstructed and which would require only minor upgrades if considered necessary.Generally, landowners are in favour of developing their land. A coordinated approachwould be required to ensure suitable lot configuration as part of any residentialdevelopment. This would be done through the use of a Development Plan Overlay.Overall development assessment - suitableArea 7 – Flat Rock RoadThe site has medium environmental constraints and high infrastructure constraints, withmedium to high conservation value. The area is, however, located adjacent to a ridgelinewith most of the properties being located on the eastern side of the ridgeline away from thetown centre, and not within walking distance to the town. Some upgrading of sewerageand water supply infrastructure would be necessary for higher residential densities.It is also considered that in this location a hard edge adjacent to the township boundariesshould be retained. In addition, as the majority of landowners do not support the rezoningof land in the immediate future, it is considered appropriate to maintain the current zoningof this area as Environmental Rural.Overall development assessment - unsuitableArea 8 – Heather Road & Dewar DriveThis area has high environmental and infrastructure constraints. In particular, the sitepossesses mostly uncleared high quality bushland, with weed invasion at reasonably lowlevels. This is the only area that was categorised as having very high conservation values,and is an area where good land management including reduction of invasive weeds shouldbe encouraged. The area would require significant infrastructure upgrades including roadaccess, sewerage and water supply.Overall development assessment - unsuitableArea 9 – Christians RoadThis area has low to medium environmental constraints. It is considered that the land isnot suitable for residential development, as access to the site is a significant distance fromthe town. The area has poor access via an unsealed road. Options for access includingconstruction of a bridge across Arthurs Creek has been considered, however, the cost couldnot be justified unless a significant residential development was to occur in this area. It isfurther considered that the Diamond Creek forms a barrier between the township and thisarea, successfully creating a hard edge between the two land uses. This hard edge shouldbe retained and is suitable in this location.Overall development assessment – unsuitableNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 67

Hurstbridge Township StrategyEconomic and Social AssessmentFurther residential growth may provide opportunities for additional commercial activity inHurstbridge, as well as increased use of community services and facilities. However, itcannot be assumed that the degree of additional residential growth and the resultantincrease in commercial and community activity is directly proportional.The degree to which additional population leads to these social and economic outcomesdepends on the types of households that may establish in the area and their socio-economiccharacteristics. It will also depend on the level of access to commercial and communityservices, in terms of location and transport. The range, quality and price of services offeredwill also influence the level of patronage.Stabilisation and expansion of commercial and community services should not be simplydependent on securing additional residential growth. The amount of any residentialgrowth is likely to be limited and, beyond the opportunities identified in this Strategy,environmental and physical infrastructure constraints mean there is an ultimate limit tothe growth potential in Hurstbridge.Developing the tourism sector has the potential to reinforce and expand the economic basefor the township, and expansion of this sector can occur without residential developmentbeing necessary.Town FormThis section focuses on the preferred outcomes for the type and form of any developmentthat may occur in Hurstbridge, having regard to, among other things, urban and ruralfringe treatments, residential density and town form. In this regard it may be consideredthat in some areas of the township that no further expansion of residential developmentshould be supported.Township EdgeA key issue in Hurstbridge is that of the ‘township edge’. In the various consultationforums there has been significant discussion about ‘buffer areas’, ‘transition zones’, ‘entrypoints’, ‘hard edges’, ‘low density development’, ‘gateways’, and the list goes on. It istherefore worth outlining the key concepts behind these various terms and how the issue ofthe township edge should be addressed in this Strategy.The interface between township, rural and conservation areas and issues concerning thephysical and functional relationship between urban and rural activities are an ongoingissue for Hurstbridge. There is a need to assess whether the objectives of providing forfuture growth can be met, but also ensuring that objectives for non-urban areas (e.g.bushland conservation, agricultural land use) are not discounted.Identifying and establishing a clearly defined boundary around a settlement and betweenurban and non-urban uses can have a number of advantages including:• providing certainty to landowners and developers;• allowing longer-term investments in non-urban activities near the fringe;• limiting speculation and ad-hoc rezoning requests;• safeguarding areas of environmental significance and productive farmland; and• encouraging compact and efficient settlements.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 68

Hurstbridge Township StrategyHurstbridge is an identifiable township located in a rural area. The town has a distinctdeveloped area, however, the outer areas of the township are characterised by a mix ofresidential development (at a variety of densities), agricultural uses andbushland/conservation areas. In some locations the township has a distinct edge, in otherlocations there is a gradation of lot sizes and a blending between the township and therural or bushland/conservation areas beyond.Neither of these types of ‘township edge treatments’ is necessarily better than the other.The suitability of a hard or transitionary edge depends entirely of the location, theenvironmental characteristics, the land uses present and whether a particular landscapeform is preferred.The township edge is potentially one of the most significant points of land use conflict, andthere are no simple solutions to existing problems. Similarly preventing the creation ofnew conflicts in the future is also difficult. The township edge is also important for itslandscape value. What is needed in Hurstbridge is an approach to ensure that thetownship edge:• responds to the environmental characteristics of the area;• avoids or minimises land use conflicts; and• contributes to the protection of landscape qualities.The following section focuses on three forms of treatment that can be implemented tobetter define the ‘township edge’. Two of the approaches use the term ‘hard edge’ while thethird approach looks at the ‘transition’ of land-use (and density) between the township andrural/conservation areas.Scenario 1 - Township/Bushland Hard EdgeDiagram 1 depicts use of a hard edge treatment between the township area and bushland.This use of a distinct urban/rural boundary currently exists on some fronts of the boundaryof Hurstbridge, particularly to the south and south-east of the township. The Temple RidgeReserve and Bailey Gully Reserve form a hard edge between residentially zoned land to thenorth of these reserves.The diagram includes an aerial depiction of this form of development. In this instance ahard edge has been created between the township and bushland area by a natural barrier(in this case a waterway). It is possible that a natural feature could be used to create ahard urban edge. It is also possible for the urban edge to be defined by physical structuresor modified land forms (e.g. roads, mounding landscaping).The hard urban/edge is easier to define where there are physical boundaries such asreserves, creeks and environmental features such as open space which limit the extent ofurban development. The Diamond and Arthurs Creeks and surrounding ridgelines haveplayed a major role in determining the settlement pattern of the township and willcontinue to do so.Scenario 2 - Township/Agriculture Hard EdgeDiagram 2 depicts a similar scenario, but in this instance the hard urban edge is betweentownship and agricultural uses. Agriculture is a key land use surrounding Hurstbridge(noting that many of the properties are used for sub-commercial or hobby farming).Township development can potentially result in land use conflict (both in terms ofagriculture affecting residential amenity and residential uses affecting the ability forconventional agricultural practices to be undertaken). In these circumstances naturalfeatures or created barriers (mounding, vegetation and the like) can form an effectiveNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 69

Hurstbridge Township Strategyseparation between the uses. The diagram depicts the aerial view of the hard urban edgebetween the township and land used for agricultural purposes.Scenario 3 - TransitionDiagram 3 depicts the transition of land-uses and densities, with the township and ruralareas being separated by low density residential development. Low density residentialdevelopment is generally development at a density between 0.4 and 2 hectares (1 and 5acres). After agriculture, the most significant land use in fringe areas, in terms of totalarea is low density residential development.Although the zoning in the planning scheme maps depicts a defined edge between thetownship and rural zones, in reality many of the allotments to the north and west of thetownship are relatively small and have been developed for rural living uses at lowdensities.An aerial view of the transitional approach to development of the urban fringe is included.A transitionary approach limits the number of dwellings close to bushland or agriculturalareas. However, it is still the case that some dwellings are near these other land uses thatmay either have an impact on, or be impacted by the residential use. This still brings intoquestion the need for some type of natural or physical separation to be provided.As stated above, the suitability of a hard edge or transitionary area between the townshiparea and rural/bushland/conservation areas depends on the local circumstances.Considering the proposed strategy of maximising the density of development in areasidentified as suitable for residential development it would be appropriate to generally applythe idea of a hard edge to the township where suitable conditions exist.Such an approach is consistent with the comments of the Panel as discussed in Section 3.2.Diagrams 4 and 5 depict the way natural features can be used to achieve the mainobjectives for promoting a particular form of township edge is to achieve land use outcomes,these include:• separating conflicting land uses;• buffering sensitive uses or areas of environmental significance; and• screening areas and improving landscape values.Diagram 4 –bushland creates a natural buffer between residential and agricultural uses.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 70

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 5 – a waterway creates a natural barrier between residential land use andrural/bushland.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 71

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 1 – TopDiagram 2 – MiddleDiagram 3 – BottomNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 72

Hurstbridge Township StrategyExamples of how these objectives can be met are detailed in diagrams 6, 7 and 8.Diagram 6 – Separating Conflicting UsesDiagram 6 depicts the use of vegetative screening to provide a physical separation orbarrier between uses. In this instance separation between rural/conservation and lowdensity residential uses.Diagram 7 – Use of Natural Buffer ZonesDiagram 7 above is similar to the previous diagram with low density residentialdevelopment providing a buffer between rural and conservation land use.DDiagram 8 – Separating Conflicting UsesDiagram 8 depicts the use of natural bushland/vegetation creating a buffer betweenresidential and agricultural uses.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 73

Hurstbridge Township StrategyResidential DensityThe density of any residential development should be in accordance with theenvironmental and landscape qualities that exist. Density should also match the designoutcomes sought for the area.While the density of development can influence the degree of environmental impact, thereis no direct nexus between lower density and better environment outcomes. Low densityresidential development can provide for retention of vegetation, on-site waste waterdetention and treatment, minimisation of soil disturbance and protection of habitat areas.However, through thoughtful design and siting, conventional residential development canachieve the same outcomes. Conversely, poorly designed (and managed) low densityresidential development can have significant detrimental environmental impacts.In determining residential density in the areas identified as suitable for residential growthin Hurstbridge it considered that a ‘performance based’ approach should be followed. Aperformance based approach focuses on the achievement of outcomes rather thanprescribing a set requirement. The approach allows a variety of techniques or solutions tobe used provided it meets the set outcomes.It is proposed that in designing any subdivision and development proposal an applicantwould be required to assess in detail the environmental characteristics of a site and detailthe physical service requirements. From this assessment a site responsive design could bedeveloped. The assessment would need to consider:• landform and soil;• waterways and drainage;• flora and fauna;• environmental hazards (flood, fire, landslip and the like)• cultural heritage and landscape;• infrastructure requirements; and• surrounding use and development.The design of any plan of subdivision, and the siting and design of proposed buildings andworks, would need to respond to the outcomes of the site assessment. This approach seeksto promote well considered and appropriate development. Considering the limited amountof land with the environmental and infrastructure capacity to support development, it isessential that the most efficient use of this land be achieved.The planning scheme provides for the use of the Development Plan Overlay andIncorporated Plan Overlay either of which could be applied to specify parameters for areasable to be developed, the size of lots and the lot yield. An explanation of the operation ofthe Development Plan Overlay and Incorporated Plan Overlay is included in Appendix H.Contributions regarding infrastructure could be addressed through a DevelopmentContributions Plan (see Appendix I).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 74

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTownship FormAlthough the physical features, environmental values and constraints and infrastructureprovision will largely determine the suitability of land for further development a furtherconcept that should be considered in determining the suitability of land for residentialdevelopment is the preferred form of the township. Some of the factors that should beconsidered in order to determine the preferred form of the Hurstbidge township include,retaining areas of non-urban land between Hurstbridge and nearby settlements, treatmentof the township edge (discussed above), retention and protection of creek corridors andwildlife corridors, retention and protection of land with high conservation and landscapevalues, containing urban development within defined boundaries and focussing the locationof any further residential development near primary transport routes and communityfacilities.It is acknowledged that there is likely to be continuing pressure to develop rural areaswithin the Shire, particularly due to the Shire’s proximity to metropolitan Melbourne, thedevelopment of the metropolitan ring road providing easier access to the Shire and theattractiveness and tranquillity of the area. Current planning policy is, however, stronglycommitted to preserving the green-wedge municipality and preventing ad hoc developmentthroughout the Shire.In the event that any additional residential rezoning of land is to be supported, it isnecessary to ensure that any such development occurs in a manner that is in keeping withthe character and preferred form of the Hurstbridge Township and has minimaldetrimental impact on the environment. The MSS identifies a number of criteria to guideCouncil decisions relating to the location of any new residential development in the Shireand the preferred form of any such development. The rezoning of land for residentialdevelopment should only be supported where the proposal:• ensures that development maintains a sense of ‘connectedness’ to existingdevelopment and does not result in residential sprawl;• avoids any development along major creeks and waterways and significant wildlifecorridors;• ensures that development, including physical infrastructure on the top ofhilltops/ridgelines which would impact on sight lines, and protrude into thelandscape is avoided;• ensures that any development results in the retention of existing vegetation toensure that new development complements the existing character of the area; and• maintains non-urban/rural land around the perimeter of the township.Non-urban breaks must be protectedNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 75

Hurstbridge Township StrategyIn order to demonstrate what may constitute a preferred town form, two simple diagramshave been prepared. Diagram 9 provides a hypothetical example of an undesirable townform. The diagram features the following elements:• new development is located on steep hillsides and ridgelines resulting in vegetationremoval and the built form dominating the landscape;• rural land is lost thorough the encroachment of residential growth;• new subdivision design and road layout feature ‘suburban elements’ and do notfollow the existing street pattern;• development is located in riparian areas, affecting both habitat and otherenvironmental values, as well as being potentially affected by overland flow orflooding; and• development directly abuts the roadside, affecting the landscape value for visitorsand residents alike.Diagram 9 – Undesirable town formDiagram 10 depicts a more appropriate township form which through planned land use andconsidered siting and design, can provide for residential growth, without the consequentenvironmental impacts.This diagram has had consideration to the criteria outlined above in this section. Newdevelopment has been sighted within close proximity to existing development and providesa sense of connectedness between the old and new development. The overall town form hasresulted in the retention of vegetated landscapes, creek corridors and habitat corridors,provision of buffer planting and the maintenance of non-urban land between settlements.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 76

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 10 – Desirable town formThis approach can be followed in Hurstbridge provided that• those areas which will be appropriate for development to occur are clearly identified;and• the environmental and other performance based criteria that such development mustaccord with, are clearly stated and understood.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 77

Hurstbridge Township StrategySummaryThe previous sections provides both a strategic and technical analysis in helping to, firstlyidentify whether it is appropriate to support the rezoning of any land in Hurstbridge forfurther residential development and secondly to identify land that may be suitable fordevelopment where it is considered that some further development could be supported.As outlined in section 6.1 of this report, there are few vacant residentially zoned allotmentswithin the numerous other opportunities for further infill development to take place withinthe township area. Land capability constraints, areas of environmental value,infrastructure limitations and past and current planning scheme controls form the basis forthe limited amount of land available for residential development.The current Local Planning Policy Framework incorporating the MSS and Local Policiesgenerally supports the intensification of residential development within the existingtownship boundaries eg multi-unit development. However, current strategic policy,including the MSS provides both arguments and counter arguments for supporting and notsupporting additional residential growth exceeding the existing residential boundaries ofthe Hurstbridge township. Some of these arguments and counter arguments are listedbelow:• additional residential development is not consistent with the Municipal StrategicStatement which supports maintenance of the green wedge through containing urbandevelopment and maintaining non-urban breaks. However, some additionaldevelopment if located appropriately may serve to better delineate the townshipboundary.• Additional development may serve to better delineate and reinforce the townshipboundaries and help counter the demand for ad hoc development in rural areas.• There is opportunity to provide for some residential growth close to the centre of thetownship close to public transport and other community facilities.This Strategy identifies a range of strategic issues that need to be considered in order todetermine the appropriateness of rezoning any additional land from environmental rural toa residential zone to provide for further residential growth. Some of the primary issuesoutlined in the Strategy which need to be considered in determining the suitability of landfor further residential growth include:• The need to maintain non-urban breaks between settlements.• The need to consolidate township boundaries and contain development within adefined area.• Protecting the environmental values of the land.• Ensuring that the environmental capability of the land is suitable for residentialdevelopment having regard to environmental constraints and natural features on thesite which may prevent proper planning of the area eg steep slopes, waterways etc.• Adequate infrastructure and service provision.• Consideration to appropriate use of buffer treatments and retaining natural featuresas a buffer eg creeks, open space areas where such features currently exist.• Ensuring any new development is located close to community facilities, publictransport and open space.Table 5 provides a summary of the results from the environmental, vegetation andinfrastructure assessment. It also provides some comments on suitability of the land forfurther development having regard to the preferred town form.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 78

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 5: Summary of resultsAreaEnvironmentalConstraints1. SecondaryCollege(part of site)Low2. Meander Road High3. Haleys GullyRoadMediumVegetation/ConservationValueInfrastructureConstraintsTown FormLow Low • Located close to town centre, public transport, community facilities andopen space;• The Arthurs Creek would provide a natural buffer to surrounding ruralland and other recreation areas.• The site would not add to urban sprawl being located close to town centre.• May have a detrimental impact on the environment being located close tothe creek.• Land is flat so protects existing views and vistas to surrounding land.Medium to veryhighHigh • Land is located to west of the town centre and is not close to the towncentre or other facilities.• Land is steeply sloping & well vegetated providing a natural buffer toexisting development.High Low • Whilst located west of the creek is reasonably close to town centre andother facilities.• Better delineation of township boundaries if it incorporates the restructurearea.• Would not detrimentally impact on views and vistas.4. Bingley Avenue Medium Medium to high High • Land is located to west of the town centre and is not close to the towncentre or other facilities.• Would not aid consolidation of the township boundaries or add to the‘connectedness’ of the township.5. Hurstbridge –Arthurs CreekRd6. Heidelberg –Kinglake RoadMediumLowHigh Medium • Rezoning of land north and south of the township to contributes to the‘urban sprawl’ effect.• Not located close to town centre.Low Medium • Would consolidate the township boundary.• Unlikely to have a detrimental impact on views and vistas.• Minimal impact on surrounding non-urban breaks.7. Flat Rock Road Medium Medium to high High • Does not contribute to the consolidation of existing township boundary.• Area is currently well vegetated and provides a suitable buffer to theresidential areas of the township.8. Heather Avenue High Low to veryhighHigh • Does not contribute to the consolidation of existing township boundary.• Area is currently well vegetated and provides a suitable buffer to theresidential areas of the township.9. Christians Road Low Medium See note ‘a’ • The creek currently acts as a natural buffer between this land and thetownship which should be retained.a - infrastructure assessment not undertaken as land would not be connected to reticulated services. Poor access and unsealed road make any development potential limited.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 79

Hurstbridge Township StrategyNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 80

Hurstbridge Township StrategyFollowing an overall assessment of the sites, areas considered suitable for some formresidential development are:• Area 1 - Diamond Valley Secondary College (assuming end use of this area isresidential, this area is subject to further investigation - see Appendix G); and• Area 6 - Heidelberg – Kinglake Road.Areas only potentially suitable for some limited form of residential development after moredetailed investigation of infrastructure and environmental constraints are:• Area 3 - Haleys Gully Road; and• Area 5 - Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road.Areas unsuitable for residential development are:• Area 2 - Meander Road – due to high environmental and infrastructure constraints;• Area 4 - Bingley Avenue – due to high vegetation conservation value and highinfrastructure constraints;• Area 7 – Flat Rock Road – due to medium to high vegetation value and highinfrastructure constraints; and• Area 8 - Heather Avenue – due to medium to high environmental constraints, highvegetation value and high infrastructure constraints; and• Area 9 – due to poor access and unsealed road.Whilst this Strategy has identified a number of areas that may be suitable to supportfurther residential development, it is considered that the support of any such developmentby Council should be considered in a Shire wide context. Although Council has recentlycompleted the Housing Strategy, a review of this Strategy should also be made in light ofthe findings of the Metropolitan Strategy.Recommendations1. That any decision to amend the zoning of the Hurstbridge Secondary College Site(Site 1) not be progressed until a determination has been made by the StateEducation Department, or other interested parties, on the end use of the site. Aspart of the determination of the end use of the site, consideration should be given tothe application of a Development Plan Overlay to the site that requires anassessment of the environmental significance and hazards of the land, detailsmeasures to manage and protect these environmental values and sites out a conceptplan to guide future development.2. That areas 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 not be supported for future residentialdevelopment.3. No amendments to rezone land to a residential zone be considered by Council untilthere is an identified need in terms of Shire wide housing requirements. Thisconsideration should be made as part of the Nillumbik Housing Strategy and the treeyear review of the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 81

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5.2 EnvironmentEnvironment ObjectivesThe objectives for the environment in Hurstbridge are:• To encourage land management practices and land use activities that have thecapacity to be sustained and both protect and enhance the natural environment.• To limit development in areas of steep slopes and ridgelines.• Protect water catchment areas from development that would affect the quality orquantity of water flow.• Protect ground water from contamination by controlling land uses which have thepotential to pollute.• To protect and enhance areas of indigenous vegetation including road reserves, openspace areas and public land.• To control vegetation removal taking into account the protection of soil and waterresources, maintaining biodiversity and fire management.• To protect significant habitats and flora and fauna communities.• To promote effective pest plant and animal control on a coordinated basis on privateand public land.• To encourage planting of indigenous vegetation.• To protect, maintain and enhance the natural/built heritage sites as a major cultural,recreation and tourist asset.• Enhance visual quality of the town centre by considering the effect of vegetationplantings, signage, location and design of buildings and commercial activities on thelandscape quality and streetscape amenity.• To ensure that development is undertaken in a manner that is sympathetic to theneighbourhood character.• To ensure fire risk is considered as part of township development.• To minimise risk to persons or property from flooding and to ensure that in areassubject to inundation, that the function of floodways to convey and store floodwatersis preserved and that the environmental significance of floodplain areas is protected.• Upgrade the visual amenity of the railway precinct by additional landscaping andappropriate improvements to railway station building, carpark and surroundingarea.WaterwaysThe integrity of eco-systems needs to be protected, and biodiversity maintained. This isparticularly important along the Diamond and Arthurs Creek corridors where eco-systemsare often at risk from degradation to stream health and habitat quality. Land use anddevelopment that will affect water quality or threaten the biodiversity of these areasshould be discouraged.Riparian vegetation should be protected and enhanced by appropriate weed control andrevegetation works. Land management practices and land use activities that have thecapacity to sustain and protect the environment should be encouraged. Waterways havebeen included in the assessment of environmental capability in Section 5.1.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 82

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWithin the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme the Environmental SignificanceOverlay 4 (ESO4) has been applied to major waterways including the Diamond andArthurs Creeks. The overlay has been applied to land 30m either side of the creeks. Apermit is generally required to construct a building or construct or carry out works,subdivide land and remove, destroy or lop any vegetation. Exemptions are containedwithin the overlay schedule.Before deciding on an application Council must consider amongst other things: theenvironmental objectives of the schedule; whether there is any reasonable alternative sitefor proposed buildings and works outside the overlay area; the means of treatment anddisposal of all sewerage, sullage and other wastes where connection to a reticulatedsewerage system is not viable.It is also noted that the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) does not extend to theHurstbridge township, although is likely to do so once appropriate assessment of the areaby Melbourne Water is carried out and completed. Melbourne Water should be encouragedto complete this assessment and an amendment undertaken as soon as possible to includeany affected land within this overlay. The LSIO requires a permit to be obtained forbuildings and works in affected areas and requires referral of any application to therelevant floodplain management authority. Although the focus of this control is directed aminimising the impact on person and property, the decision guidelines also assert that theresponsible authority have regard to the effect of the development on environmental valuessuch as natural habitat, stream stability, erosion, water quality and sites of scientificsignificance.Recommendations4. Actively support local groups such as Friends and Landcare groups to undertakeenvironmental works in accordance with Council strategies and relevant catchmentstrategies.5. To initiate stormwater management arrangements to protect water quality in thearea.6. Continue to support community weed control programs and pest animal control inthe area.7. Identify and prioritise areas that are weed infested to be incorporated into Council’swork programs.8. Encourage landowners to utilise education programs (eg Land for Wildlife,Farm$mart, Landcare, Melbourne Water Stream Frontage Program etc) for targetedmanagement strategy advice for landowners living adjacent to creeks.9. Introduce an Amendment to incorporate affected areas to the Land Subject toInundation Overlay, upon completion of an assessment of affected areas byMelbourne Water.Sites of Faunal and Habitat SignificanceFive sites of faunal and habitat significance occur within the study area. These areas havebeen identified as important to maintaining existing populations, assemblages and speciesof native plants and animals. While of significant environmental importance, these habitatareas also contribute to the landscape character of Hurstbridge.These areas should be protected and wildlife encouraged through the incorporation ofwildlife corridors in new use and development and through the application of conservationmeasures contained within the Sites of Faunal and Habitat Significance in North EastMelbourne (Beardsell 1997).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 83

Hurstbridge Township StrategyIn the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme sites of faunal and habitat significancehave been included in the Environmental Significance Overlay 1 (ESO1). Within the ESO1a permit is required amongst other things to construct a building or construct or carry outworks, construct a fence, subdivide land and remove, destroy or lop any vegetation.Before deciding on an application, the responsible authority must consider such things as:the role of native vegetation in contributing to faunal and habitat value; the need to protectvegetation that forms part of a habitat link, the need for an integrated land managementplan; and conditions that should be applied to avoid or mitigate potential impacts of thesubdivision or development on identified faunal habitat values.Sites of faunal and habitat significance have been included in the assessment ofenvironmental capability in Section 5.1.Recommendations10. That the Environmental Significance Overlay continue to be applied to identifiedareas in the Hurstbridge township.11. That development within identified faunal and habitat areas have regard to theconservation measures contained within the Sites of Faunal and Habitat Significancein North East Melbourne (Beardsell 1997).12. Encourage use of the Trust for Nature covenants on private property.VegetationLandowners should be encouraged to maintain existing remnant vegetation, and to reestablishindigenous vegetation where land has been significantly cleared. Application forthe removal of a specified area of native vegetation should consider and assess theenvironmental impact of the loss of native vegetation. Under the State standard provisionsof the planning scheme, a permit is required for the removal, destruction or lopping ofnative vegetation on lots greater than 0.4ha. Other native vegetation removal provisionsmay also apply. These include the Environmental Significance Overlay and SignificantLandscape Overlay in the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Tree cover andvegetation type and quality has also been included in the assessment of environmentalcapability in section 5.1.Within the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme the Significant Landscape Overlay 1applies to most areas within the Township Zone. A permit is not required to construct abuilding or construct or carry out works (although the zone may require a permit),however, a permit is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation. Before decidingon an application, the responsible authority must consider: the role of the vegetation incontributing to the character and appearance of the area; any design and siting guidelinesadopted by the responsible authority; and the need to screen buildings and structures tomaintain the character of the area.Recommendations13. Continue to administer the native vegetation removal controls of the NillumbikPlanning Scheme.14. Where conditions attached to a planning permit for vegetation removal requirereplacement trees, that suggested species are indigenous species of local stock whereappropriate.Pest Animals and PlantsIntroduced plant and animal species have a detrimental impact on the sustainability ofnative plants and animals. The spread of environmental and noxious weeds is often causedby land clearing, urban development and through the planting of introduced species indomestic gardens.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 84

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWhere appropriate the use of locally indigenous plants for landscaping should beencouraged.Recommendations15. That Council promote compliance with the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994in terms of controlling environmental and noxious weeds.Wild Fire RiskWildfire risk to person and property is a real threat within the Shire of Nillumbik due tothe combination of extensive vegetation cover, the orientation of steeply sloping land,climatic conditions and the location and design of development. Hurstbridge is noexception characterised by densely vegetated and undulating terrain.Precautions need to be taken to avoid and mitigate the potential impact to persons andproperty. Particular precautions need to be taken in the design of subdivisions, and sitingand design of buildings and the ongoing management of land.The Wildfire Management Overlay has been applied to nearly all land within andextending outside of the study area. It is envisaged in the long term, that more areaswithin the Shire will be included within the overlay, including more land around theHurstbridge area. A permit is required to construct a building or construct or carry outworks associated with uses including accommodation, child care centre, education centreand place of assembly. Some exemptions apply with are outlined in the overlay provisions.Any application must have consideration to water supply, access, buildings and works andvegetation.Wildfire risk has been included in the assessment of environmental capability in section5.1.Recommendations16. That residential development be discouraged in areas where there is a combinationof high slope, dense vegetation, limited water supply and poor vehicular access.17. Continue to administer the provisions of the Wildfire Management Overlay.Streetscape and Building FormArchitectureThe architectural quality of a streetscape is an important feature which can make apositive contribution to the overall appearance of the built environment. Historic buildingsand sites are part of the architectural quality of the township and should be protected inHurstbridge.Existing significant retail buildings and timber shops should be retained as they areintegral to the streetscape character of Main Road.New developments and structures including alterations should be designed and sited torespect the heritage places in terms of form, orientation, colour and materials to create asense of continuity between new development and the existing streetscape.New buildings within the commercial area of Main Road should be designed to complementsurrounding architecture through incorporating features of other nearby buildings, thoughnot replicating designs. New buildings should have regard to the small scale of olderbuildings, gabled roof lines, simple verandahs and the attention to detail and materialsused.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 85

Hurstbridge Township Strategy1. ScaleThe scale of Hurstbridge’s older buildings is small and intimate. They are of one storeyconstruction, with low verandahs and small frontages to the street. New buildings shouldbe of single story construction or designed so that the second storey is incorporated into theroof line of the building, so maintain the scale of the streetscape (refer diagram 11).Diagram 112. Roof FormThe roof lines are very prominent in Hurstbridge due to the hilliness of the area. Therooflines of the older buildings are multiple gabled and high pitched. These rooflines areimportant to the rural town character of Hurstbridge and work well when reproduced.(refer diagram 12).Diagram 123. VerandahsAs mentioned before, the verandahs of Hurstbridge are characteristic of the town and havebeen used successfully in the new buildings. However, they should be kept simple in formand not imitate the turned wood verandahs of the older buildings. Only the scale should beexactly imitated to give visual unity both the old and the new. Any new verandahs shouldjoin the wall below the eaves line of the building (refer Diagrams 13-15).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 86

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 13 Diagram 14Diagram 154. WindowsThe older buildings generally have windows of a vertical orientation and this should berepeated in any new building. The most suitable windows are double hung, casementawning or fixed types (see diagram 16).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 87

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5. DoorsPlain finish panel or vertically boarded doors are the best solution to a solid front door.Mock panelling, applied moulding and decorative front doors in general and bright highlyvarnished finishes should be avoided. The impact of the appropriate as opposed to theinappropriate door (or window) is surprisingly great and important to the overall characterof a building. Their importance should not be taken lightly even though they are smallerdetails of the overall building (see diagram 17).6. MaterialsDiagram 17Roofing materials should be restricted to galvanised corrugated iron and likewise for roofplumbing materials. This is to keep in character with the older buildings. However stateof the art products today will ensure a far greater life span than those of older buildings.All the older buildings of the town are built of weatherboard. This should be encouraged inthe new buildings with the use of the 150mm weatherboards with the square edge profile.If brick is to be used then plain or pressed bricks are most appropriate. Tumbled, antiqueor imitation clinker brinks should be avoided. Red bricks are probably most appropriate inkeeping with the brickwork of the Edwardian Period.7. Painting SchemesThe harmony of the original buildings can be retained also through the use of suitablecolours of the period. Suggested colour schemes are:• Roofs – natural, light to slate grey, light stone, ferric red or mid-green• Walls – light to medium shades of cream, stone tan or ochre. Brickwork should beleft unpainted.• Trim – light brown, rich brown, indian red, brunswick green, olive green, prussianblue.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 88

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 18 depicts use of painting schemesRecommendations18. That a Design and Development Overlay be included in the New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme by way of an amendment. The overlay should incorporate thefeatures outlined above and be located over all that land fronting Heidelberg-Kinglake Road (Main Road) between Parker Street and Cherry Tree Road to guidefuture development.19. That other design and development provisions be considered as part of the NillumbikNeighbourhood Character study (forthcoming).Main Road ImprovementsMaps 8 and 9 depict some of the design and landscape opportunities and constraints thatare discussed below and in Section 5.5 – Infrastructure. Details on the costings of proposedworks are included in Appendix J.The reserve opposite the green-grocer could be improved and better utilised throughprovision of additional seating and tables. There are few places to sit and eat within thetown and this area could be an attractive public space. Landscaping of this reserve isrequired and dead plants should be replaced. This would be an appropriate area tointroduce additional plants that are linked to the natural vegetation for this area beingPlains Grassy Woodland vegetation.Additional seating and tables could be provided where the current bottle depot is withscreen planting along the railway and existing mature vegetation providing an attractiveand secluded place for social gatherings. This location is also close to the town centre andpark areas.The existing garage on the corner of Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road and Main Road couldbe improved through attractive landscaping around the perimeter of the building, inkeeping with landscaping to be incorporated along the length of Main Road.A more appropriate place for the bottle depot may be along Greysharps Road, where it isless visible from the Main Road, yet still accessible. The bottle depot would be moreappropriately screened or fenced to minimise the impact on the streetscape amenity.The visual integrity of Allwood House should be improved. The picket fence in front ofAllwood House should be lowered and set back providing greater visibility to house andgarden. The path between Allwood House and Fergusons Paddock should be improved andinclude clear signage at the Main Road entrance.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 89

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 8Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 90

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 9Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 91

Hurstbridge Township StrategyReview the visual orientation of the old bank to improve its visibility to Main Road. Thecurrent location and surrounding landscaping of bank next to Allwood House detracts fromthe form and heritage value of the bank. The lowering and relocation of the fence asoutlined above should improve the visibility of this building to the street.The small reserve on the corner of Anzac Avenue and Main Road would be safer if a lowfence, such as a single chain or edge planting was provided around the perimeter of thereserve. The reserve contains a small children’s activity play area adjacent to the MainRoad. Tables in the reserve would also encourage greater usage of the park, with a numberof take-away food stores located in proximity.Maps 10 and 11 depict the Main Road Concept Strategy, which have consideration to manyof the issues raised above on in Section 5.5 – Infrastructure.Recommendations20. That Council adopts the Main Road Concept Plan (as detailed on Maps 10 and 11contained in this Strategy).Railway and Greysharps RoadThe appearance of the station building should be improved. This could be achieved bylandscaping of the train station, commuter carparking area and fenced railyards. Screenplanting should be provided in front of the station and along railway fencing to providescreening of these areas from Main Road and to improve the visual amenity of the station.Landscaping, including the provision of trees should be incorporated into the car park andprovide some shade plating for commuter vehicles. Seats could also be provided at thefront of the station for passengers.Recommendations21. That Council approach VicTrack and/or Alstom to progress strategies for improvingthe appearance of the station area. That all VicTrack and/or Alstom owned land beincluded in strategies for improved land use in the station and Main Road area, asdetailed in the Main Road Concept Plan.Township ApproachesThe entrance points to Hurstbridge are an important feature in helping to define thetownship. Entrance points also play a major role in the townscape experience of personstravelling into the town. Scattered and linear development makes it difficult to perceivethe township edge.Entrance points to the town should be clearly recognised and celebrate the theme of thetown, both through distinctive tree planting at the entry points to the town and clear,attractive signage to define the formal edges of the town.The entrance to the commercial area from the north and south entrances should beimproved to create a strong sense of entry. Use of sculpture and/or landscaping of the twomain round-abouts at Parker Street and Cherry Tree Road would create a sense of entryand reduce speed of vehicles along Main Road.Recommendations22. To maintain and enhance the entrance points to Hurstbridge and create attractiveand defined approach to the town centre, through appropriate landscaping and/or useof sculptures.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 92

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 10Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 93

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 11Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 94

Hurstbridge Township StrategyStreet-Tree Planting and LandscapingStreet trees contribute significantly to the visual appearance, unity and character of atown. The streetscape design and type of planting also assists to reinforce the theme andsense of identity of a town. Street tree planting and landscaping along the Main Road iscurrently inconsistent creating a sense of disunity within the town centre. The aim for thetown centre would be to introduce a set of guidelines for planting along Main Roadincorporating both tree and ground cover species to suit the existing environment and thatwill ensure visual continuity along the length of the street and its environs.Provision of planting of indigenous trees and ground cover between parking bays withinroad pavement, would reinforce landscape qualities. Where possible existing trees shouldbe retained and car parking designed to minimise the impact to existing trees. Trees andground cover will improve the streetscape appearance if carried out in a consistent mannerwhile also resulting in the speed reduction of passing traffic. Where possible, street treeplanting and landscaping should be carried out in the front of shops and along the roadreserve.Landscaping should be provided to screen industrial uses and other commercial activitiesthat detract from the streetscape including railway activities and the garden supply centreadjacent to Melissa Close. Landscaping will improve street presentation and providescreening of these activities from Main Road.Recommendations23. Consider a street tree planting program for Main Road, which is linked to the mainnatural community being Plains Grassy Woodland, to encourage naturalrevegetation of these species.24. That where any road works are to be carried out, existing trees are retained wherepossible.25. Review and replace suitable trees located under powerlines. Some tall species oftrees have been inappropriately planted under powerlines. There are some speciesthat would be more suitable for planting under powerlines.26. Street tree and landscaping plans should be prepared in consultation with tradersand residents.Street FurnitureStreet furniture should be designed and sited to complement the function of the street as aspace accommodating and encouraging a wide range of social activities. Street furnitureshould also be functional and user friendly. Like use of street trees, street furniture shouldalso complement the theme of the town and provide a sense of unity.Street furniture should complement and reinforce the character desired for the town.Modern styles should be avoided, as should period reproductions. Furniture should berobust, simple and a combination of timber and steel. Placement of street furniture shouldnot restrict movement of pedestrians.Recommendations27. That an inventory of the provision of existing street furniture along Main Road becarried out.28. That additional street furniture be provided at identified locations.29. Ensure that any new infrastructure, e.g. seating etc. has regard to Council’sDisability Access Policy.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 95

Hurstbridge Township StrategySignageSignage should also complement the streetscape and theme of the town, with minimalusage of signs to avoid visual clutter. The existing character of a streetscape can be greatlyimproved through the removal of typical but inappropriate visual clutter of signs andreplacing them with simple attractive signs.Signage tends to lack coordination in the town centre, with many retailers resorting to anumber of signs instead of a single bold sign. Many retailers also use product signs insteadof or as well as business signs.Signage should have regard to the following guidelines:• The building supports and provides a background for the sign;• The message should be short, simple and relevant for easy comprehension;• The use of one sign only to be encouraged containing the business name. Repetitionof a fixed message is counter productive;• Product signs should be discouraged as these are often irrelevant;• Signs with bright colours, animated or with flashing lights should be discouraged;• Signs to be placed in the following locations− Hanging sign below the canopy, one sign per shop only;− Along the verandah facia;− Above verandah sign, though not projecting above the roof line of the building;− On front or side walls of the building, though not projecting above wall.(refer to Diagram 19)• Signs that are consistent with signage on other nearby buildings to be encouraged.Diagram 19Recommendations30. That a set of guidelines for signage based on the guidelines above, be incorporatedwithin the Local Planning Policy Framework of the New Format Nillumbik PlanningScheme.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 96

Hurstbridge Township StrategyPavingThe use of paving materials of different textures and colours can contribute to the sense ofvisual interest in a streetscape. The key issue is maintaining consistency andappropriateness to the character of the built and natural environment. Currently there is amix of concrete, asphalt and paved areas throughout the town centre and surrounds.A review of paving materials and replacement where appropriate, would contribute toimproved aesthetic quality in the town. At present there are a number of paving materialsused throughout the retail centre. All footpaths and paving should comply with Council’sDisability Access Policy.It is proposed that materials used be drawn from local influences such as stone, recycledwood and recycled brick pavers.Recommendations31. Ensure that any new paving is sympathetic to the surrounding environment andcomplies with the Disability Access Policy.32. Paving materials that should be encouraged include concrete, cobblestones or otherpaving material that is sympathetic to the streetscape and uses colours to match thesurrounding vegetation.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 97

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5.3 Rural Land UseRural Land Use ObjectivesThe objectives for rural landuse in Hurstbridge are:• To encourage land management practices and land use activities that have thecapacity to be sustained and protect the environment.• To encourage sustainable agricultural enterprises having consideration toenvironmental impacts.• To ensure that appropriate separation is retained between sensitive uses andagricultural uses to minimise potential conflicts.• To ensure that development in rural areas is planned, serviced and managed so thatthere are no immediate or long term lessening of the environmental quality.• To maintain existing breaks between the Hurstbridge township and other nearbyurban areas and townships• Ensure the rural character of the township is maintained and that ‘suburban’features do not dominate.Agricultural Land UseThere is the need for the retention of agricultural land that is in production and themanagement of township development so as not to convert or limit the capacity for the fulluse of that land. Significant investment remains in existing agricultural operations, whichneeds to be protected from residential encroachment or land use conflict.Development of land for non-soil based uses should be focused in the township area so asnot to compromise the productive potential of agricultural land. Land use conflict shouldbe avoided or minimised by ensuring that the needs of agricultural operations areconsidered in the location and design of township development.Recommendations33. Encourage small agricultural enterprises on suitable sites in the wider Hurstbridgearea and encourage retention of existing agricultural land uses.34. Support sustainable agricultural enterprises and the diversification of agriculturalactivities.35. Discourage inappropriate subdivision or land uses that would affect the productivepotential of agricultural land.Land ManagementSupport should be given to existing and newly establishing agricultural operations for useand development which is both sustainable and have minimal impact on the naturalenvironment. Where planning approval is required, applications for use and developmentof rural land should be accompanied by supporting information on environmentalmanagement arrangements.Recommendations36. That Council continue to offer property management courses, the sustainableagriculture rebate and other programs designed to encourage sustainable landmanagement practices.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 98

Hurstbridge Township StrategySeparation of Conflicting UsesOne of the most noticeable characteristics of the Nillumbik Shire is the physical separationbetween settlements. Hurstbridge has been well contained with non-urban breaksseparating the township from other nearby settlements. The aim is to continue to containurban growth within a defined area. These arrangements contribute to the avoidance ofland use conflicts.Rural Farmland, HurstbridgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 99

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5.4 Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development ObjectivesObjectives relating to economic development in Hurstbridge are:• To consolidate the commercial and retail functions of the town centre and limitadditional residential development in this area.• To strengthen the service role of the town centre to meet community expectations forthe provisions of a range of services and goods.• To improve shopper and visitor comfort and convenience in commercial and retailareas.• To provide for land uses that establish and expand tourism opportunities in the Shireand realise a potential for additional local employment.• Improve the quality of tourist facilities and infrastructure.• To promote the town as a significant heritage and tourism centre.• To assist in the development of home based occupations as an alternativeemployment sector.Business and Retail DevelopmentIt is important that Hurstbridge be recognised as an economically sustainable business andretail centre that provides a combination of neighbourhood shopping and specialistservices.The township centre is a critical area in terms of the economic development of Hurstbridge.The structured development of the township centre is essential so that adequate floorspaceis available for new or expanding businesses, that the local community is provided withready access to the area, and that it is safe and easy to move around.It is estimated that the provision of floorspace of local retailing for local people isapproximately 2,110m 2 for a catchment of 5,150 people, or 0.4m 2 /capita. The typical levelof retail floorspace supported on a per capita business is 2m 2 /capita. Thus, 0.4m 2 /capitaprovided in Hurstbridge is equivalent to 20% of what people can support (2.0m 2 /capita),with the balance in retail provision (80%) provided in larger centres elsewhere (EssentialEconomics 1999).It has further been estimated that possibly as much as 80% of the available spending ofcatchment residents is lost to larger centres located elsewhere in the Shire (Diamond Creekor Eltham) and beyond (e.g. Greensborough, Northland etc). Given the above information,it is considered that the existing floor space is sufficient in terms of the amount of spendingoccurring in the centre.It is feasible that the investment of the community bank and/or increase in population mayattract more businesses into the area. It is considered that any new retail developmentshould be developed or occupy existing floorspace within the retail precinct of the towncentre. Retail development should be consolidated within the existing precinct and shouldnot be developed to the north of the town centre.Retail and commercial uses should be encouraged in the Main Road area. Additionalresidential use of land in this area is to be discouraged, unless part of an integratedretail/commercial development. General improvements to car and pedestrian movements,as well as to presentation and comfort, could be made to support retail and commercialdevelopment.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 100

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTourism and business development in the township (but away from the township centre) orin a rural area is only suitable, where it is:• related to a rural land use; or• based on the cultural and environmental features of the area.This type of tourism or business development should:• have adequate infrastructure services, including safe and efficient access to a mainroad;• not effect the amenity of the area or the operation of rural activities, includingagricultural land use.Recommendations37. Recognise that the role and function of the Hurstbridge town centre will bemaintained as a neighbourhood and specialist services shopping centre.38. That retail uses be encouraged in the Main Road area. Accordingly limit pedestrianlevel street frontage of residential development in retail and commercial precincts ofthe centre.39. To provide ongoing support to the Hurstbridge Trader’s Association.40. Encourage the establishment of home-based business in the Hurstbridge area.Tourism DevelopmentHurstbridge’s opportunities in tourism focusing on retail, food and wine, scenic walks anddrives and the natural environment should be developed and promoted. A supportingmeasure is to protect and enhance the natural and physical environment which provides ahigh quality experience for visitors. Some particular sites are critical to tourism activities.These include the Main Road area and Fergusons Paddock.Recommendations41. To offer continued support to the Nillumbik Tourism Association.42. Promote tourism development, including in surrounding rural areas.43. Protect and enhance those natural and physical features which contribute toproviding a tourism experience in Hurstbridge.44. Coordinate signage which ensures attractive and appropriate information anddirection information, while maintaining the visual aesthetics of the township.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 101

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMain Road, HurstbridgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 102

Hurstbridge Township Strategy5.5 InfrastructureInfrastructure ObjectivesObjectives for Infrastructure in Hurstbridge are to:• Utilise available infrastructure in advance of expanding the township boundary.• Minimise vehicle and pedestrian conflict through the implementation of trafficcalming measures.• Improve and facilitate safe, easy and direct pedestrian access between the variousfunctional precincts of the township.• Optimise the use of kerbside and off-street car parking for shopper, employee andvisitor use within the Main Road.• Identify and review opportunities for access over the Diamond Creek along ArthursCreek Road.• Facilitate safer vehicle movement and access within and around the township.• Formulate an overall concept plan for traffic management within the township area.• Provide well defined and properly paved and landscaped pedestrian linkages fromthe station to the nearby commercial area• Facilitate safe vehicle access to commuter carparks• Formulate an overall development plan for all railway land to east and west of trackhaving primary regard to the Public Transport Corporation and Hillside Trains.• Provide safe and easy pedestrian access to the railway station from GreysharpsRoad, linking with nearby community facilities and Fergusons Paddock.• Improve/increase use of the railway through providing a more user friendly facilitythat is easily accessible, contains adequate car parking, safety for commuters andtheir vehicles within the car park and improved security.Car ParkingParking plays a major role in contributing to the productive use of a retail centre. Thelocation and design layout of car parking is a major priority in the design program forHurstbridge. Maps 10 and 11 depict some of the suggested strategies listed below.• Provide kerbside extensions on either side of the existing crossing to provide betterdefinition of the crossing and improve visibility for both motorists and pedestrians.Consider/review upgrading existing facility to pedestrian operated signals.• Parking and seal on the west side of Main Road should be formalised to provideindented parking.• Road should be widened to provide sufficient room for indented parallel parking oneast and west side of Main Road between Parker Road and Anzac Avenue. Kerbingshould be constructed on the west side to minimise drainage problems and providesafer vehicle movement.• Carparking between Anzac Avenue and Cherry Tree Road should be rationalised.• The road width between Anzac Avenue and Cherry Tree Road should be modified toprovide indented parallel car parking and provide for sufficient room for two lanes ofparked vehicles and two lanes of through traffic.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 103

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Time restrictions should be applied to some areas of Main Road between ParkerStreet and Anzac Avenue. It is evident that some kerbside parking spaces adjacentto retail frontages are being used for long term parking. A time limit of 1 or 2 hoursshould be applied to ensure these areas are set aside for people visiting the shops.• Relocate and upgrade the primary school crossing. To improve pedestrian safety andovercome existing traffic conflicts at the school crossing related to turning trafficfrom the school car park and community centre, the crossing should be relocated tothe south side of the school car park entry.• Primary School carpark and CFA carpark should be formalised, possiblyincorporating permeable materials. Carpark should be landscaped to providescreening to Main Road at front of property and vegetation within carpark to softenthe appearance and to provide shade for vehicles.• Existing Right-of-ways behind retail premises be upgraded/constructed to improvevehicular access. Establishment and provision of on-site car parking areas to therear of these premises with pedestrian access to the road would reduce pressures onstreet parking.Road NetworkThe township requires a road system that will provide for the adequate movement ofvehicles and flow of traffic while also providing for sufficient carparking opportunities andensuring pedestrian safety. This objective should be met by not only the roads within thetownship but also those local and connector roads further out. No significant roaddevelopments are proposed as part of the Strategy.Speed LimitsAny changes to speed limits require the approval of VicRoads. There are guidelines in useto ensure that there is a consistent approach to speed limits throughout Victoria. Factorstaken into account when determining appropriate speed limits for an area include the roadenvironment, the level and nature of abutting development, vehicle speeds and accidenthistory. VicRoads Speed Zoning Guidelines also note that arbitrarily imposed speed limitswhich are too low are not respected and actual speeds remain at similar levels. The conflictcreated by such a situation (i.e. more variation in traffic speeds) may actually make thesituation worse.The 80km/h speed limit along Haleys Gully Road, Heidelberg-Kinglake Road and CherryTree Road, outside the built up areas is considered appropriate given the prevailingconditions. In the event that more areas were residentially developed along theseconnector roads, Council would take appropriate action to ensure that the speed limit forthese areas was reviewed.Traffic ManagementTraffic calming measures are increasingly being requested by residents to minimisespeeding traffic and other dangerous behaviour including the overtaking of vehicles indangerous locations. The most common form of traffic calming works include speed humps,round-abouts and chicanes. With the exception of round-abouts and traffic lights, othertraffic calming measures are not used on main roads as larger vehicles are unable tonegotiate these objects. Neither are these measures suitable for gravel roads, which areoften very narrow and unsuitable for these objects.With the exception of the main commuter roads, other roads within the township mainlycater for local traffic only and are unlikely to be subject to large flows of trafficNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 104

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMain RoadIn order to reduce speed of vehicles and conflict between pedestrians and turning traffic atthe Hurstbridge Primary School, time based speed limits reducing the speed limit to 40k/ph between the peak pick up and drop off hours would enable better management oftraffic in this area.Maps 10 and 11 provides some other options for the treatment of Main Road to furtherreduce vehicle speeds in this vicinity including: widening Main Road to provide indentedcar parking and providing pedestrian refuges and relocating the school crossing to facilitatesafer pedestrian movement.Traffic speeds could be further reduced within the town centre through having the speedreduced to 50km per hour through the town centre.Following the release of the draft Strategy and receipt of public comment, the plans havebeen altered to delete reference to the narrowing of Main Road. It is considered that as anumber of large trucks pass through the town centre, it is not appropriate to narrow theroad, as this may reduce the manoeuvrability of large vehicles and reduce traffic safety. Itis also unlikely that VicRoads will approve any changes to the alignment of the Main Roadwhere it may restrict manoeuvrability of vehicles.Right of Way EasementsHurstbridge has an extensive network of right-of-way easements, many of which are underutilisedby both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. This is primarily due to their generallynarrow width (3.0m) and unconstructed nature. Pedestrian movement is also constrainedby the narrow width due to conflict with vehicular movement along these easements.Although the existing road network is sufficient to cope with the existing volumes of localtraffic, more requests are increasingly being made to Council to allow vehicular access fromright-of-ways to multi-unit developments. Sole access from right-of-ways will generally notbe encouraged unless the easement is constructed and widened to the satisfaction of theresponsible authority. This may not always be feasible given the large number ofindividual properties that may abut a right-of-way.Recommendations45. Council consider making application to VicRoads to review speed limits asdevelopment occurs in the Hurstbridge area, particularly along Main Road.Heavy vehiclesThere are a considerable number of heavy articulated vehicles that pass through the centreof town. Of particular concern is the number of trucks travelling to and from the abattoirin Gosfield Road. Many local residents consider these trucks a nuisance. These vehiclesenter the town both from the south along Heidelberg-Kinglake Road via the Western RingRoad and from the west along Haleys Gully Road via the Hume Highway.Two options have been suggested to carry traffic away from the town centre:Option 1 – Load Limits on Monash BridgeThis option would involve restricting access for vehicles above a certain weight from usingthe bridge and thus forcing these vehicles to use an alternative route. While it would bepossible to place a load limit on the bridge, it would not be possible to allow exemptions forlocal traffic such as school buses, local farm vehicles or other heavy vehicles above a certainweight to use the bridge.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 105

Hurstbridge Township StrategyStrengths• Would restrict heavy vehicles from using the bridge;• May help preserve the bridge with less traffic using this route for access.Weaknesses• Heavy vehicles may still enter the town centre from the south along Heidelberg –Kinglake Road;• Would disadvantage other local traffic and delivery vehicles relying on this route foraccess.Option 2 - Alternative routesThis option would involve heavy traffic, particularly the abattoir trucks using alternativeexisting roads to avoid the Hurstbridge town centre. The main route identified is shown onMap 12 and would only be for those vehicles entering the area from the west. Thealternative route involves trucks using Arthurs Creek Road, Greens Road andCottlesbridge-Strathewan Road.Strengths• Heavy traffic entering from the west would be diverted from passing through MainRoad;• Would reduce the current load of trucks passing through the township and overMonash Bridge, without restricting other vehicles requiring local access.Weaknesses• Heavy vehicles may still enter the town as Council can not force vehicles to usealternative routes;• Existing curvature, the grades and road width of the alternative route is not currentlyof a standard to ensure vehicle safety;• Costs required for road works to improve some sections of the road may be substantial.Council is not in the position to require certain vehicles to use alternative transport routes,particularly if the existing road network can sustain traffic levels. Although the pig trucksin particular, may create a nuisance to residents at certain times, the existing roadnetwork can sustain current traffic volumes.In addition the owner of the abattoir has agreed to contribute to works to improve access tothe site as part of a planning permit for the extension of the abattoir. The planning permitrequired the owner to contribute money towards the reconstruction of Gosfield Road. Inthe event that there is any residual money, this would go towards the layout of carparkingalong the eastern side of Main Road north of Anzac Avenue and possible design andreconstruction of Monash Bridge. It is unlikely, however, that there will be sufficient fundsfor all of these works.A third option would be to construct a by-pass route. This option is discussed in moredetail in a following section.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 106

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 12 – Aternative MapsNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 107

Hurstbridge Township StrategyPedestrian MovementThe main objective with regard to pedestrian movement is to improve and facilitate safe,easy and direct pedestrian access between the various functional precincts within the towncentre and surrounds incorporating retail and commercial areas, community services, openspace and residential areas.Of particular importance are the upgrades required to improve pedestrian access andsafety along the Main Road and from the Main Road to residential areas. Maps 23 and 24indicate some of the required changes being:• Upgrade existing pedestrian crossing adjacent to Post Office• Provide pedestrian median islands along Main Road at 50m intervals betweenParker Street and Cherry Tree Road. Median islands will improve pedestrian safetyby allowing pedestrians to cross one lane at a time, while providing for movement ofthrough traffic. Median islands can be landscaped improving the appearance of thestreetscape (refer Diagrams 20, 21 and 22).Diagram 20 – Median islands• Improve pedestrian access to station.• Define and upgrade pedestrian path between Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road andpedestrian crossing across railway.• Seal walking path between bridge crossing adjacent to Hurstbridge-Arthurs CreekRoad and Allwood House to improve pedestrian access.• Sealed footpaths should be provided along the entire length of Main Road to improvepedestrian access to the town centre.• Asphalt pedestrian path on eastern side of Arthurs Creek Road between HaleysGully Road and pedestrian bridge.• Assess possibility of providing lighting along pedestrian paths within the townshipincluding existing pedestrian paths around the train station and between HaleysGully Road through Fergusons Paddock to Allwood House.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 108

Hurstbridge Township StrategyDiagram 21Diagram 22Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 109

Hurstbridge Township StrategyIt is also noted that few areas outside Main Road and its immediate surrounds areprovided with formalised pedestrian footpaths. Council policy generally requires a 100%contribution from property owners to pay for any new footpaths along local roads. Themain exceptions would be footpaths in any new residential development, where thedeveloper would be required to construct any footpaths and high priority footpaths asidentified by Council. Priority is generally based on amount of pedestrian traffic, trafficvolumes, width of road reserve and linkages to other paths.Any new footpaths would also be required to comply with Council’s Disability Access Policy,particularly any new paths along road reserves and in the town centre. Gravel, dirt orother unsurfaced paths are often not suitable, as they tend to deteriorate quickly, oftenhave poor drainage and are difficult for some users to navigate. In addition these surfacesare more costly to maintain and sufficient funding would need to be provided in the yearlybudget for continual maintenance. At a minimum any pedestrian paths such as the onebetween Haleys Gully Road and Allwood House need to be asphalted to minimisemaintenance while providing a suitable walking surface.Town Centre - Fergusons Paddock LinkagesThere is a major opportunity to link the open space of Fergusons Paddock with the towncentre, reinforcing the rural character of Hurstbridge and providing new recreationopportunities. This can be achieved by:• a visual opening from Main Road, by developing vehicular and pedestrian access onvacant land next to the vet and hardware shop. This would provide access to thetennis club and Fergusons Paddock;• a link road along the front of Fergusons Paddock to the rear of the existing shopsalong Main Road and re-enter Main Road further along the road. Land Acquisitionwould be necessary for this;• new public toilets, central to the town centre and Fergusons Paddock in FergusonsPaddock parking area;• parking area and entrances to the park to be well vegetated with indigenousvegetation, improving the streetscape while screening car parking areas fromFergusons paddock;• entrances to park to be well signposted, particularly to encourage visitor usage; and• BBQ and covered pergola area to be constructed in park to encourage greater use ofthe park by residents and visitors.Railway and Greysharps RoadThere is an opportunity to improve the railway station and Greysharps Road area both interms of being functional and visually appealing. This can be achieved by:• new entrance to station from Parker Road round-about;• encouraging greater use of the railway car park;• the commuter car park while extensively used on weekdays by commuters, is underutilisedon weekends. Promotion of this carpark should be undertaken by improvedsignage, modification of entry/exits to improve safety and improved pedestrian linksbetween the station to retail commercial area;• extending the commuter car park in two areas; and• at the railway station to the north, incorporating land that is currently used at thecrane depot. If VicTrack did not extend the lease for this business this land could beincorporated in to a stage to increase commuter car parking and provide a newentry/exit to the station. This facility will:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 110

Hurstbridge Township Strategy−−−increase commuter parking facilities;provide parking for commercial precinct and any possible expansion of theretail area;provide the opportunity for promoting weekend tourist activity, possibly inconjunction with a Sunday craft market or similar.• on western side of station, the construction of a commuter carpark on the westernside of the station with access via Greysharps Road, would:−−−reduce amount of traffic on Main Road during peak periods;enable design of a new car park incorporating screening measures,landscaping, improved pedestrian movement to station; andimprove appearance of western side of station which is currently under-utilisedand often covered with weeds.RecommendationsParker Street round-about – possible access point to train station46. Adopt all those changes above incorporated in the Main Road Concept Plan (coveringcarparking, traffic management, footpaths, open space areas, transport and the like)shown on maps 10 and 11 of the Strategy.47. Review time limits for carparking along Main Road.Monash BridgeMonash Bridge located on Arthurs Creek Road is both a significant historical feature andan essential access route for vehicles entering the township. The single lane bridge is theonly route between the town centre and the western residential section of the township.Community response has been varied in regard to the value of the bridge as an access routeworthy of retention in is current form. There have also been concerns that motorists notfamiliar with the bridge fail to give way and often approach the bridge at acceleratedspeeds without anticipating the threat of on-coming traffic. Some sections of the communityenjoy the social perspective of having to stop for oncoming traffic and the courteousacknowledgment from motorists, others however feel constrained by waiting for traffic topass.The Panel and Advisory Committee for the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme alsoacknowledged that the narrow width of the bridge constrains traffic to some degree. ThePanel indicated that it may be necessary to provide a two-way movement over DiamondCreek through provision of a parallel bridge to provide a second lane or the provision of anew dual carriageway on a different alignment.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 111

Hurstbridge Township StrategyIt should be noted that most people commenting on the future of the Monash Bridgesupported its retention, being a significant cultural and historical feature of the area,regardless of whether or not a second bridge is constructed.Three options have been identified with regard to the bridge:Option 1 - Retain Monash BridgeThis option would involve the retention of the bridge in its current form. Some minorworks may need to be carried out to improve visibility and safety of the bridge includingremoving weeds to improve visibility across the bridge, providing stop or give way signs onthe road and reviewing location and wording of existing signage.Strengths• Infrastructure is existing, with only minor works required to improve condition ofbridge;• Is an important cultural and historical feature of the town; and• Minimal impact on the environment.Weaknesses• Alignment and narrow width of bridge impede the manoeuvrability of articulatedvehicles;• Congestion of vehicles crossing the bridge;• Turning trucks from the western end often require both lanes to cross the bridgeincreasing danger to oncoming vehicles;• Visibility is often poor due to overgrowth of weeds and poor lighting at night;• Vehicles sometimes fail to give way increasing the danger to motorists;• If an accident occurs on the bridge, this would prevent vehicles entering and existingthe township;• In the event of a natural disaster, a single lane bridge could limit access toemergency vehicles and restrict other traffic; and• Alignment of bridge and Arthurs Creek Road along the verge of the escarpment donot provide sufficient room for a pedestrian path to link Haleys Gully Road to thesouthern section of the township, e.g. Hurstbridge Park and train station.Option 2 - Duplication of a Second BridgeThis option would involve retaining the existing bridge for one lane of traffic andconstructing a second bridge at some point across the Diamond Creek to provide for thesecond lane of traffic.Strengths• Monash Bridge is retained for use by vehicular traffic;• Two lanes will provide for continual traffic movement; and• Alignment of new bridge would improve safety for motorists and would improveaccess for articulated vehicles entering the township from the western periphery.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 112

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWeaknesses• Northbound traffic crossing Monash Bridge affected by the poor alignment of thebridge and Arthurs Creek Road;• Alignment of bridge and Arthurs Creek Road along the verge of the escarpment donot provide sufficient room for a pedestrian path to link Haleys Gully Road to thesouthern section of the township e.g. Hurstbridge Park and train station;• Views of Monash Bridge from creekside obstructed; and• Some impact on the natural environment.Option 3 - New Dual Carriageway BridgeThe third option involves the construction of a dual carriageway to the north of the existingbridge. The alignment of the road would be required to be altered from Greysharps Road toensure the bridge has a smooth alignment to allow good visibility. The existing bridgewould be retained and would potentially form part of a pedestrian accessway betweenGreysharps Road and Haleys Gully Road. An underpass would also be created to provide apedestrian link to Fergusons Paddock. This proposal is outlined on Map 13.Strengths• Continual vehicle movement across the Diamond Creek reducing traffic congestion;• Realignment will improve manoeuvrability of all vehicles reducing conflict betweencars and articulated vehicles;• Damage to bridge unlikely with improved alignment;• Improved pedestrian access between eastern and western sections of the township;• Underpass will provide a valuable pedestrian linkage to Fergusons Paddock andreduce number of roads pedestrians need to cross;• Alignment will provide separation between the new bridge and Monash bridgepreserving the integrity of the existing bridge; and• Will improve access for emergency vehicles.Weaknesses• Views towards Monash Bridge will be reduced by the alignment and construction ofthe bridge; and• Some vegetation will need to be removed to cater for the alignment of the bridgeThe estimated cost of construction of the dual carriageway bridge is $1.3 million.In order to implement this option the following measures would need to be instigated:1. Review what land Council currently owns that is required for the new alignment;2. Land Council owns be rezoned for proposed road;3. Apply a public acquisition overlay over privately owned land required for the newalignment; and4. Securing of funding for bridge works.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 113

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 13 - monash bridgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 114

Hurstbridge Township StrategyFurther environmental, engineering and transport assessment, involving communityconsultation is necessary to identify the preferred option for the best and most appropriateoption for the Monash Bridge.Recommendation48. That Council withhold a final decision on the preferred option(s) for the MonashBridge until further community consultation has been undertaken by the StateGovernment, as well as assessment of heritage, transport and environmentalimpacts.By Pass RoutesThe number of heavy bulk transportation vehicles routed through the Main Road ofHurstbridge is of considerable concern to some sections of the community. Although someof these vehicles service retail business in the township, the bulk of these vehicles aretransporting goods to and from agricultural areas. Of particular concern are the number oftrucks transporting live pigs to the abattoir in Gosfield Road to the north of the township.Trucks generated by the Hurstbridge Abattoir enter the town from the south via the RingRoad and Greensborough By-pass and from the west via Haleys Gully Road and MonashBridge. Although the total number of trucks passing through the town centre is of concern,it is the conflict between light vehicles and trucks at the Monash Bridge that is ofparticular concern.One possible way of improving the current situation and minimising conflicts within thetown centre is to construct a by-pass route. Map 14 depicts four possible option routes forthe Hurstbridge township that have been developed in the past as possibly overcoming theproblem of through traffic. It should be noted that three out of the four options are aimedprimarily at diverting traffic from the south around the town centre, and will have littleimpact on vehicles entering the town from the west.Option 1 - Haleys Gully RoadThis option provides for the redirection of traffic flow along an extension of Haleys GullyRoad and connection with Heidelberg-Kinglake Road. This option provides a completediversion of through traffic entering the township from the west. Factors affecting theoption include:• Land acquisition east of Arthurs Creek Road;• Construction of a new bridge over Arthurs Creek;• Upgrade to Arthurs Creek and Haleys Gully Roads intersection; and• Provision and redirection of pedestrian accessways.Strengths• Redirection of through traffic away from the town centre including heavytransportation vehicles, improving traffic movement through the town centre; and• Removal of heavy trucks from Monash Bridge reducing conflict between vehicles anddamage to the bridge.Weaknesses• By-pass route through the middle of an open space reserve;• Would aid in further segregating the township and open space areas;• Would have serious environmental impacts; andNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 115

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Possible decrease in commercial activity in town centre.Option 2 - Hurst RoadThis option involves constructing the by-pass route on the western side of the DiamondCreek to connect with Hurst Road and Haleys Gully Road. This option would not have anyreal positive impact to reduction of traffic in the town centre unless combined with Option1 above, as vehicles would still enter the town via Monash Bridge. Factors affecting thisoption include:• Construction of a bridge across Diamond Creek;• Construction of a new level crossing across the railway line;• Acquisition of land along the entire length of the by-pass route;• Upgrade to Hurst Road and Haleys Gully Road.Strengths• Redirection of through traffic away from the town centre including heavytransportation vehicles, improving traffic movement through the town centre.Weaknesses• May affect retail shops and other commercial business who rely on through traffic;• Topography - route passes through some sections subject to inundation and otherareas having significant slope;• Dissects a residential area and will increase volumes of traffic through residentialareas;• Passes through some areas of high environmental and conservation value;• Only re-direct traffic from that section of the town centre between Parker Street andAnzac Avenue.Option 3 - Railway-Greysharps RoadThis option shows the delineation of the by-pass route along the railway and GreysharpsRoad. The by-pass begins at the west of Parker Street and connects with Arthurs CreekRoad next to Monash Bridge. Again, this route is only useful for persons travelling west ofin conjunction with Option 1. Motorists wanting to continue north would likely re-enterthe town centre via Arthurs Creek Road. Factors affecting this option include:• Construction of a new level crossing across the railway line;• Acquisition of land including railway land;• Upgrade of road at intersection with Arthurs Creek Road.Strengths• Redirects traffic away from the town centre.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 116

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 14 – Bypass routesNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 117

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWeaknesses• May affect retail shops and other commercial business who rely on through traffic;• Topography - route passes through some sections of land subject to inundation;• Dissects areas of open space and other recreation areas including ovals and thebowling club;• Passes through some areas of high environmental and conservation value;• Only re-direct traffic from that section of the town centre between Parker Street andAnzac Avenue; and• Does not reduce the number or impact of vehicles approaching the town centre fromthe west over Monash Bridge.Option 4 - Springhill RoadThis option involves the proposed by-pass route passing over the Diamond Creek to thesouth of the town centre and essentially connecting with Springhill Road. Traffic wouldthen continue north potentially connecting with Boyds Road or Bannons Lane North toeventually re-connect with Heidelberg Kinglake Road. Factors affecting this optioninclude:• Construction of a bridge across Diamond Creek;• Construction of a new level crossing across the railway line;• Acquisition of land along the entire length of the by-pass route; and• Upgrade to Springhill and Haleys Gully Road;Strengths• By-pass route would re-direct all traffic approaching township from both south andwest directions;Weaknesses• May affect retail shops and other commercial business who rely on through traffic;• Topography - route passes through some sections of land subject to inundation andalso through steeply sloping land; and• Route passes through some areas of high environmental and conservation value.SummaryA by-pass route can often be very successful in diverting traffic away from areas that areconstantly congested and where there are high statistics of accidents or conflict. Theamount and type of traffic using Main Road is an issue, however, the delineation of any bypassroute would need to have regard to a variety of issues including minimising its impacton the environment and current land-uses; having regard to provision of existinginfrastructure and topography and improving traffic movement in and around the towncentre.All of the options above have significant impact on Hurstbridge and its surrounds withmost routes orientated along areas of high environmental value or passing throughsensitive land uses and dissecting these areas. None of the options are recommended andany option for a by-pass route would need to be further considered by Council.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 118

Hurstbridge Township StrategyPublic Open SpaceOpen space represents an invaluable asset to the Hurstbridge community, withopportunities to create a system to link the open space areas with the transport, residentialcommercial and community uses within the township. Such linkages could greatly increasethe whole social and economic life of the community and also realise the potential of theriver corridor for recreational use.Many of the issues raised in relation to open space and recreation have been considered inSection 5.2, as one of the main aims of pedestrian access to improve linkages and accessbetween the functional precincts including the commercial area, train station, communityfacilities, residential areas and open space and recreation facilities.• The recreational and community services role of open space areas as major assets ofthe town should be enhanced.• The environmental quality and amenity of the open space areas should be protectedand enhanced by appropriate landscaping and maintenance/management programs;• Accessibility and visibility of Fergusons Paddock to the Main Road should beenhanced to provide a visual and physical connection between the two land-uses.• The parkland areas particularly along the creek frontages should also be enhanced.• Amenity of parkland through provision of facilities such as BBQ’s, pergolas andtoilets should be improved.• Pedestrian linkages through recreation areas and between other precincts should beimproved• The small reserve at corner of Anzac Avenue and Main Road should be upgraded.This area could be made more user friendly through the provision of tables andimproved landscaping. Play equipment should be relocated as located dangerouslyclose to Main Road. Alternatively, park could be contained through landscapingaround the perimeter or use of a fence/chain to match the character of thestreetscape.Council is currently preparing an Open Space Strategy for the whole of the municipal area.The strategy will assess the current provision of public parkland and conservation areas,and determine amongst other things the adequacy of open space provision.It is anticipated that any recommendations contained in the strategy will direct future landacquisition for the purpose of public open space or indeed if any surplus land should bedisposed of.It is therefore considered inappropriate to make any specific recommendations regardingprovision of public land in Hurstbridge until such time as this Strategy is completed in2002.Recommendations49. That a review of facilities and amenities on public land in Hurstbridge be considered.50. That new facilities eg BBQ’s, play equipment, pergolas etc. be considered in suitableidentified areas.51. That the acquisition and/or disposal of public land within Hurstbridge be consideredas part of the Open Space Strategy (forthcoming).Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 119

Hurstbridge Township Strategy6. Township ProfileThis section provides an overview of the existing conditions of the town in relation to fivethemes:1. Settlement and housing;2. Environment;3. Rural land use;4. Economic development; and5. Infrastructure.6.1 Settlement and HousingShire ContextHurstbridge forms one of the smaller township areas within the Shire and is separatedfrom other nearby settlements by farmland and bushland. Most of the Shire’s population isconcentrated in the urban areas to the south and south-west of Hurstbridge, includingDiamond Creek, Greensborough, North Warrandyte, Research and Eltham.As part of the implementation of the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme, a number ofareas throughout the Shire have been rezoned to provide for the expected populationgrowth. Areas which are proposed to be rezoned to provide for increased residential growthinclude the area to the north and north-east of Diamond Creek and the Plenty area. Thereis provision for low-density development within the north Plenty and Yarrambat area.Few sites adjacent to any of the other townships and small communities within the Shirehave been rezoned to provide for the further residential development outside the existingtownship boundaries. Hurstbridge is no exception, with the proposed zoning of theHurstbridge settlement, restricting residential development to the current Township Zoneboundaries. Land adjacent to the township zone has an 8ha minimum lot size, largelypreventing any further subdivision of these areas because the vast majority of existing lotsare less than 16 hectares. Map 15 depicts the proposed zoning of land pursuant to the NewFormat Nillumbik Planning Scheme.Township FormThe nature of Hurstbridge’s development is a reflection of the topography, environmentalconstraints, the historic pattern of subdivision and planning controls exercised over thepast thirty years by the Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Scheme and subsequentCouncils having jurisdiction over the Hurstbridge area. Recognition of the Shire’s role as a‘green wedge’ area has ensured land conservation and limited new urban and low densityresidential expansion throughout the municipality. This has meant that settlements suchas Hurstbridge have generally maintained current lot boundaries.The Hurstbridge township has retained a ‘rural village’ atmosphere which is the desiredimage and identity for the township as expressed by the local community. The basic charmof a ‘rural village’ is its confined, concentrated activity areas, and its small scale. Thehistoric buildings, informal layout and panoramic views towards the hills from the towncentre reinforce this image.The town centre has developed along the Heidelberg-Kinglake Road adjacent to therailway. Land along Main Road is used for a mix of industrial, commercial, retail,residential and community purposes.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 120

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 15 - zoningNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 121

Hurstbridge Township StrategyHeidelberg-Kinglake Road – viewlooking south from the ArthursCreek Road and Main Roadintersection. The mature nativeEucalypts and wide nature stripsenhance the village atmosphere ofthe township.Residential development is divided into two distinct sections to the east and west of thetown centre. The Diamond and Arthurs Creeks, which converge at the centre of the town,create a physical barrier between the two sections and this has largely determined theexisting settlement pattern of the town. The steep topography has also influenced thepattern of residential development. Much of the residential development within theHurstbridge settlement is nestled within the undulating topography. Map 16 delineatesexisting land-use within the study area and surrounds.Residential allotments within the township are reasonably large, with most lots beingapproximately 750 to 1,200 square metres in area. Low density-residential lots typicallyrange in area between 4000 square metres to 1 hectare.The existing township has developed to the east and west of Diamond Creek with its corecentre located to the east of the creek. Main Road is the only flat part of the township withresidential development spreading up and out along the ridgelines.Residential development is generally confined to those areas with a slope of less than 30%.Minimal development has occurred near the creek corridors which are subject to floodingand therefore unsuitable for residential development. Much of this land is zoned for publicopen space and conservation purposes.Most of the existing residentially zoned land has been developed, and a high percentage oflots contain mature native and indigenous vegetation which provides significant treecanopy coverage of the township. The tree canopy together with low density developmentand unconstructed roads epitomises the rural atmosphere.Hurstbridge is experiencing slow but steady growth, however, vacant land within thetownship is minimal (17 lots representing less than 2% of total properties in the township).There is a low level of both residential and commercial building activity in the area ascompared to the rest of the municipality.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 122

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 16 - land useNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 123

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThese factors have resulted in the following features of the township:• sewerage, drainage and road infrastructure being largely inadequate for much of thetownship as negligible growth pressure has meant minimal new service provision inthe area in recent times;• Hurstbridge developing as a dormitory/commuter township, with only a small localemployment base. Hurstbridge is primarily a local service area, with most retailexpenditure occurring elsewhere;• a few small and inappropriate subdivisions on the urban fringe, one of which hasrequired to be consolidated prior to development;• steeply sloping land largely remaining undeveloped on the residential fringe; and• significant areas of well vegetated land remaining adjacent to the township, some ofhigh faunal and habitat significance.Housing CharacteristicsSingle detached dwellings on conventional allotments are the predominant form of housingstock within the study area (94.6%). Medium density housing forms a very smallcomponent of the overall pattern of housing in the Hurstbridge township, comprising lessthan 2% of dwelling stock.There is provision within the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme, that will providefor the construction of more than one dwelling on a lot in most zones in Hurstbridge.However, it is envisaged that single dwellings will continue to comprise the majority of newdwellings constructed.Existing dwellings in both the western and eastern sections of the township arepredominantly of single storey construction, although the steep topography of the area hasresulted in many dwellings being split level in design.The Hurstbridge district contains areas with highly attractive landscapes and picturesqueviews of the many gullies and elevated ridgelines. These landscape vistas are highlyvalued by the local community and visitors to Hurstbridge. Inappropriate design andsiting of buildings would compromise the integrity of these features.The built form of housing in the area varies from early 20th century timber dwellings alongthe Main Road to post war houses in some of the older sections of the township and largercontemporary styles of dwellings constructed in more recently subdivided areas.Most dwellings are of weatherboard or brick construction, although other techniques suchas rammed earth and straw bale are evidence of increasing interest in alternative buildingmaterials.Residential development has generally been contained within the Township Zoneboundaries, with minimal urban expansion beyond these boundaries. The two mainexceptions are Caroline Court to the north of the township and Fawkner Crescent to thenorth-west of the township. Both of these low density residential subdivisions haveoccurred outside the proposed Township Zone.The Fawkner Crescent subdivision was an original crown township subdivision which wasnever developed and is in the process of being restructured. This area was, and still is,inappropriate for township development due to the absence of infrastructure services andthe original lots being too small to contain dwellings and associated effluent disposal.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 124

Hurstbridge Township StrategyVacant Land in Township AreaAn analysis of vacant lots determined through site inspections and investigation ofNillumbik Shire Council building records indicates that there are 17 vacant lots within thestudy area. A number of these lots are located on Main Road and are currently used asinformal parking areas for adjoining businesses.Under the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme no additional land is proposed to berezoned to allow further residential development at either standard residential or lowresidential densities. Land adjacent to the township zone, is proposed to be zonedEnvironmental Rural Zone with an 8 hectare minimum lot size.Demographic ProfileThe Shire of Nillumbik has a total population of approximately 58,166. The current rate ofpopulation growth is 0.5% per annum, which is quite low compared to the averagepopulation growth rate of Melbourne of 1.0% per annum (Department of Infrastructure,2000). Table 6 below shows that overall the population growth rate for the Shire is likelyto continue decline steadily over the next two decades.Table 6: Change in PopulationChange in 1999-2021 1996-99 1999-01 2001-06 2006-11 2011-21PopulationNet 726 260 47 71 166 442Average annual 0.2% 0.7% 0.2% 0.1% 0.2% 0.3%Source: Department of Infrastructure 2000It is expected that the Shire’s population will stabilise at around a population of 62,628 by2021, which is a projected increase of 4,462 people between 1999 and 2021. This representsan average annual growth rate of 0.3%. The majority of the population reside within theurban and township areas of the Shire, which includes the township of Hurstbridge, withonly 6% of the population living in rural areas. Rural areas have experienced a decline inpopulation in recent years.In 1996 there were 17,643 households in the Shire. The average household size in theShire is significantly larger than the Melbourne metropolitan average, yet it is expected todecline. Table 73 below shows the projected change in average household size in the Shire.Coupled with an increasing population, the estimated number of households in the Shire by2021 is forecast to be approximately 22,871 indicating that about 5,200 new householdswill need to be accommodated by 2021 (Department of Infrastructure, 2000). This is aproportionately higher number of households needing to be accommodated than the figureof 4,800 new houses projected by the Department of Infrastructure in 1996.Table 7: Average Household Size1996 1999 2001 2006 2011 2021Average HouseholdSize2.70 2.65 2.63 2.56 2.50 2.39Source: Department of Infrastructure 2000Change is also expected in the age structure over the next twenty-two years. The 60-69and 70-84 age groups are projected to have the greatest net growth, with the highest netloss to be experienced in the 5-17 and 35-49 age groups.The boundary of Census Collection Districts, used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics,for the Hurstbridge district does not directly accord with the study area. Five censuscollection districts have been used to comprise the demographic data for Hurstbridge. Map17 shows the boundaries of the census collection districts in relation to the study area.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 125

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 17 - cdsNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 126

Hurstbridge Township StrategyPopulation & Age ProfileTable 8 shows that the population of Hurstbridge increased marginally by 2.7% between1991 and 1996, a total of 82 persons. The population of Hurstbridge, however, is growingrelatively slowly (0.5% per annum) in comparison with the wider municipality (1.51% perannum). For the purpose of identifying future housing needs, this informationdemonstrates that while the Hurstbridge population is growing steadily, the actual growthis minimal.Table 8: Age Structure and Changes 1991 to 1996Age 1991Persons1996PersonsTotal PopulationChange 1991-19960-4 323 268 - 555-17 752 766 + 1418-24 243 267 + 2425-34 561 511 - 5035-49 777 845 + 6850-59 158 253 + 9560-69 79 64 - 1570-84 96 99 + 385 plus 19 17 - 2Total 3008 3090 + 82Source: ABS 1991 and 1996Hurstbridge has a young age structure with a large proportion of school aged childrenalthough there was a significant decline in the number of pre-school children aged between0-4 (55 less) between 1991 and 1996. There was also a loss of 50 persons aged between 25-34 over the same period indicating that a number of families are moving out of the area.Hurstbridge is characterised by a reasonably young population with 44% of the populationaged between 25 and 49 years and 33.4% aged between 0 to 17 years. These figures areconsistent with the higher proportion of traditional nuclear families that reside inNillumbik compared to that of the metropolitan average (57.2% compared to the MelbourneStatistical Division average of 38.1%).The table also shows that there has also been a decrease in the number of elderly personsaged 60 years or over (loss of 48 persons). This is generally inconsistent with the currentAustralian demographic trend of an increasingly ageing population in most communities.This indicates that fewer older people stay in the community as they age, perhaps due to alack of facilities required for elderly persons and the hilly topography of the area reducingthe mobility of elderly residents.Some age groups experienced a net increase between 1991 and 1996 and this includes thosepersons aged between 5-24 years (38 persons) and those aged between 35-49 years (163persons). This increase may be attributed to families moving into the area with olderchildren, attracted by the proximity of Hurstbridge to Melbourne and the naturalenvironment as an attractive place to bring up children.Housing ConstructionThe 1991 Census shows a total of 889 dwellings within the township area. This increasedto 985 at the 1996 Census - an increase of 99 dwellings. This indicates on average theconstruction of approximately 10 new dwellings per year.In 1996, the majority of residents lived in detached dwellings and only a small proportionlived in semi-detached dwellings or flats/units/apartments.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 127

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 9 shows that over half (54.6%) of all households are occupied by a couple withchildren. This figure is slightly below the average for that of the Shire (57.2%), however itis well above the average for that of the Melbourne Statistical Division average of 38.1%.A further 18% of households are occupied by a couple. A lesser number of households areoccupied by a single parent family or by a lone person.Table 9: Relationship in Households - 1996Relationship in HouseholdNo.%HouseholdsCouple with children 520 54.6Couple 175 18.4Single parent family 104 10.9Other family 3 0.3Two or more family households 6 0.6Lone person 121 12.7Other 23 2.5Total 952 100.0Source: ABS 1996EthnicityTable 10 below shows that the majority of residents (84.8%) were born in Australia. Ofthose residents born overseas, the majority come from the United Kingdom, with a smallnumber from New Zealand. Few people were born in countries with non-English speakingbackgrounds. A total of 99 persons were born in another country not included in the table.Table 10: Country of Birth (Top 6 Rankings for Hurstbridge)Country of Birth Persons %Australian 2623 84.9United Kingdom 185 6.0New Zealand 35 1.2Italy 16 0.5Germany 16 0.5Netherlands 16 0.5Other Country 99 3.2Not Stated 97 3.1Overseas Visitor 3 0.1Total 3090 100.0Source: ABS 1996Table 11 shows that almost 95% of residents speak only English at home. This indicatesthat there are few non-English speaking groups represented in the Hurstbridge area withless than 100 persons speaking another language.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 128

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 11: Language Spoken at Home - Persons Ages 5 Years or MoreLanguage Spoken at Home Persons %Speaks English only 2656 94.0Speaks other language:Italian 16 0.6Greek 9 0.3German 22 0.8Macedonian 0 0Croatian 0 0Netherlandic 21 0.7Cantonese 3 0.1Other 24 0.8Total speaking other language 95 -Not stated 72 2.6Overseas Visitor 3 0.1Total 2826 100.0Source: ABS 1996Key Points - Settlement and Housing• Existing settlement is clearly defined with a hard urban edge separating thetownship from rural land uses.• Detached dwellings on single lots are the predominant form of housing in theHurstbridge area.• Few vacant lots within the township boundaries.• Total population of Hurstbridge increasing, although at a slower rate in comparisonto the wider municipality.• There is a high proportion of traditional nuclear families in Hurstbridge.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 129

Hurstbridge Township Strategy6.2 EnvironmentThis section contains a profile of both the natural and built environments of Hurstbridge.LandformTopographyHurstbridge is characterised by undulating terrain that is positioned either side of theDiamond Creek which meanders through the valley. Map 18 shows the topography of thearea and clearly depicts the location of the Diamond and Arthurs Creeks, with steeplysloping land flanking the western side of the creeks.Map 19 depicts the slope of the area through computer analysis. A significant proportion ofland within the Hurstbridge Study Area has a gradient of 30% or greater. There are 4 keyareas where slopes are generally in excess of 30 per cent. These are areas along KendallsLane and extending to the south-east, generally along the waterway parallel to SpringhillRoad. A second area is the western bank of the Diamond Creek, from the northern end ofChristians Road though to the southern end of Meander Road. The third area consists ofsome scattered sites in the Bingley Avenue and Wattle Tree Road area. The fourth andmain area where slopes exceed 30 per cent are located to the immediate east of thetownship from Anzac Avenue/Taylor Road through to Silvan Road and beyond.Slope in excess of 30% is considered difficult to develop and it is often problematic toprovide adequate infrastructure.Waterways and drainage areas are generally characterised by land with a gradient of lessthan 10% and these are clearly visible along the Diamond and Arthurs Creeks. With theexception of these waterways and natural drainage lines, most other land has a gradient ofbetween 15-25%.Map 20 indicates the main ridgeline complexes in the township area. There are four (4)main ridge complexes in the township. One ridge runs along Springhill Road south east tothe eastern end of Wadeson Road, part of this ridge also forks off to the east from theFawkner Crescent area around to Meander Road. A second ridge is located in the WattleTree Road area. A third ridge is located to the north of the town, generally alongChristians Road. The fourth ridge complex is the eastern backdrop to the township,running between Anzac Avenue and Silvan Road.SoilMost soils in the area are ‘dispersive’ and very susceptible to erosion, particularly insteeply sloping areas and where land use activity exposes the soil. The soils are quiteshallow with mostly rock underneath. Although soil type does not directly impact on thepossibility of development, building on hard rock can increase costs where land needs to beexcavated. Although there are a number of other specifications, the provision of septictanks or other on-site treatment plants needs to have regard to soil types.Soil erosion is generally of concern where land has been cleared of vegetation, duringexcavation works, the installation of infrastructure services and where the land is notproperly revegetated. Unconstructed roads, carparks and poorly landscaped sloping areasalso intensifies the problem of erosion and sedimentation. Most erosion results in thesediment ending up in waterways which creates additional adverse effects on theenvironment and wildlife.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 130

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 18 topoNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 131

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 19 slopeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 132

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 20 ridgesNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 133

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe floodplains and gentle outwash slopes of the Diamond Creek valley are flanked bydissected foothill terrain of sedimentary origin, variously with siltstone, sandstone andmudstone derived soils.WaterWaterwaysThe two main waterways in the township are the Arthurs and Diamond Creeks. Inaddition, small waterways are located to the west of the town (entering the Diamond Creekat the southern end of Meander Road, and just south of Wadeson Road) and on the easternside of the township, running generally along Heather Avenue/Flat Rock Road and CherryTree Road to Diamond Creek.Areas of open space and parkland abut Diamond Creek, notably Fergusons Paddock. TheDiamond Valley Secondary College site also forms significant open space along theDiamond Creek. The Diamond Creek is recognised as a Strategic Habitat Link (Beardsell,1997) and forms a contiguous riparian habitat connecting numerous sites of significancefrom the Kinglake Ranges to the Yarra River at Eltham.Diamond Valley SecondarySchool site – view lookingwest towards Diamond Creek(Meander Road) from MainRoadWater QualityWhile the Diamond and Arthurs Creek corridors are significant features of the town, theenvironmental values and aesthetics of the creeks and their surrounds are diminished bythe degraded nature of the creek corridors. This applies particularly to Diamond Creekwhich has been identified as a priority sub-catchment within the Yarra Catchment ActionPlan 1999 due to severe waterway degradation problems.Water quality and aquatic macroinvertebrate are rated as fair within the Diamond Creekat Hurstbridge. High turbidity, low dissolved oxygen and increased nutrient levels arefactors that are currently reducing stream health (Melbourne Water 1999). As a result ofincreased water pollution and degraded instream and riparian habitat, FreshwaterBlackfish (Gadopsis marmoratus) once common, have appeared to be eliminated from theDiamond Creek at Hurstbridge. Other native species such as the Southern Pigmy Perch(Nannoperca australis) are also in decline (Beardsell 1997).The Diamond Creek Sub-catchment Local Action Program (1999) describes actions requiredto improve stream health and habitat quality. Areas of concern around Hurstbridgeinclude:• riparian zone weeds, especially willows, English ivy, blackberry, honeysuckle, angledonion and blue periwinkle;Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 134

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 1 bridge at creekNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 135

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• poor quality stormwater and runoff entering the creek;• streambank erosion; and• fragmented and degraded riparian native vegetation.There are a number of active community based environmental groups undertaking weedcontrol and revegetation works along the Diamond Creek opposite Meander Road andwithin Fergusons Paddock. Nillumbik Shire Council assists these groups and alsoundertakes additional weed control and revegetation works in Fergusons Paddock,Hurstbridge Park and Temple Ridge Reserve. Council is currently undertaking avifaunaand flora surveys of Fergusons Paddock and also assists a number of community groupsinvolved in monitoring water quality of both creeks through the community educationprogram Waterwatch.Upstream of the study area many property owners are participating in the MelbourneWater Stream Frontage Program that involves fencing out stock from the riparian zone ofthe creeks and tributaries. Over time this will greatly improve the condition of both creeksystems.Many of the areas along the creek are in private ownership, placing environmentalmanagement responsibilities on landowners. Nillumbik Shire Council actively supportsand encourages proper management of the creek environs through educational support,community weed programs and support for local environmental groups.Protection and enhancement of waterways, however, is greatly affected by changes inservices and resources from the various authorities responsible for the different aspects ofwaterway management including the Department of Natural Resources and Environmentand Melbourne Water.A number of studies have been carried out by the various authorities involved in protectingand enhancing the quality of the creek environs. Reports relevant to the Diamond Creeksub-catchment include: Yarra Catchment Action Plan (1999) Department of NaturalResources; Diamond Creek Sub-catchment Local Action Program (February 1999) DiamondCreek Sub-catchment Working Group; Diamond Creek Concept Plan (June 1995)Melbourne Parks and Waterways. These documents provide some importantrecommendations regarding actions required to improve the creek environs.The operation of on-site effluent disposal systems, including septic tanks, has the potentialto contaminate surface and groundwater. Some landowners do not adequately maintainexisting septic tank systems. The soil type or topography of certain areas may alsopreclude the effective operation of septic tank systems. The majority of residential areasare, however, serviced by reticulated sewerage. Losses from the reticulated seweragesystem arise in the form of spills, leeks and collapses. However, according to the YarraCatchment Action Plan, this is not a major problem in the Diamond Creek sub-catchmentarea.Increased impervious surfaces through the construction of new roads and hard surfacescreated by dwellings, pathways and the like lead to an increase of run-off and storm waterdrainage. Again this run-off eventually finishes in the local waterways.Flood RiskThe Hurstbridge township and surrounding areas are liable to inundation from the manycreeks and waterways that traverse these areas during times of a ‘one in one hundred yearflood’. Land subject to inundation is generally limited to the low margins of the Arthursand Diamond Creeks. Extensive areas are subject to flooding around Fergusons Paddockand the recreation areas along the Diamond Creek.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 136

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe passage and storage of floodwaters, flood related damage and protection of waterquality are important issues that need to be addressed. This helps in determining the useand development of land to ensure drainage flows have uninterrupted passage and thepotential risk to life and property is minimised.FloraMap 10 indicates pre-1750 vegetation types in Hurstbridge. This map details vegetationtypes that were present prior to European settlement. These vegetation communities existtoday, however, the composition has altered significantly over time. The composition ofvegetation is influenced by a combination of factors reflecting environmental attributessuch as interrelated characteristics of soil, aspect, slope and moisture availability, andmodification which has occurred since European settlement.In the Hurstbridge area, the distribution of the vegetation types is strongly related to thetopography.A wide range of vegetation types occurred in the Hurstbridge township area - sevenEcological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) each of which include more than one plantcommunity, have been recognised in pre-1750 vegetation mapping of the area. Therelevant EVCs are:• Riparian Forest;• Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland;• Plains Grassy Woodland;• Valley Grassy Forest;• Herb-rich Foothill Forest;• Grassy Dry Forest; and• Box-Ironbark Forest.In the original vegetation, the floodplains of the Diamond Creek were occupied by RiparianForest, replaced by Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland along minor streams and gullies.Plains Grassy Woodland was locally very restricted, occurring on gentle fertile soils withinthe current township area. Valley Grassy Forest occurred on relatively fertile soils ofvalley slopes and around minor gullies. Small patches of Herb-rich Foothill Forestoccurred on the most sheltered south and east facing slopes, particularly around gullyheads. The drier ridges and slopes (particularly those facing north and west) supportedmostly Grassy Dry Forest, but also restricted areas of Box Ironbark Forest.While these vegetation types are characterised according to variations in the floristiccomposition and character of the understorey, as well as the attributes of the overstorey,the dominant tree species of each types are (locally) as follows:• Riparian Forest: Manna Gum, sometimes with Swamp Gum;• Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland: Swamp Gum, Candlebark (variously with otherminor associates, e.g. Manna Gum, Yarra Gum, Messmate, Narrow-leaf Peppermint;• Plains Grassy Woodland: Blakely’s Red Gum, Yellow Box;• Valley Grassy Forest: Yellow Box Candlebark, Red Stringybark;• Herb-rich Foothill Forest: Narrow-leaf Peppermint, Candlebark (variously associatesincluding Messmate and Mountain Grey Gum in at least some stands);• Grassy Dry Forest: Red Box, Red Stringybark, Long-leaf Box, sometimes with YellowBox and Candlebark prevalent in vegetation transitional to Valley Grassy Forest;andNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 137

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Box-Ironbark Forest: Red Ironbark, Red Stringybark, Long-leaved Box.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 138

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 21 – Pre 1750 Veg. TypesNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 139

Hurstbridge Township StrategyWhile all of the vegetation types in the area have to some extent been reduced or modifiedby factors such as clearing, timber cutting, weed invasion, grazing and species losses, thehabitats associated with more fertile soils have been particularly depleted. Plains GrassyWoodland, Valley Grassy Forest and Creek-line Herb-rich Woodland are all consideredthreatened and very poorly reserved at a State-wide level. Consequently, even somewhatdegraded examples can be considered of high conservation importance.While the EVC Riparian Forest has been considered relatively secure at the State toregional scale, the lower altitude variants of this EVC in particular have been extensivelymodified by agricultural utilisation, and this habitat is particularly prone to weed invasion.Consequently, relatively intact examples of Riparian Forest within foothill terrain areconsidered to be of high conservation importance.The local variant of Box-Ironbark Forest is of restricted distribution. From a State-wideperspective, this EVC has also been subject to broadscale modification from timberharvesting, grazing and gold mining. Relatively intact local examples are clearlyimportant, both at the community level and for particular plant species locally restricted tothis habitat.Grassy Dry Forest is the most widespread vegetation type within the area. As in general itoccurs in habitats of relatively low agricultural potential, much remains tree covered.However, extensive timber cutting (e.g. during the gold rush and the depression) hasmodified the structure of virtually all of the forest. Veteran trees are of particularimportance, including use as fauna habitat. While a substantial proportion of the areaoriginally supporting Grassy Dry Forest retains native tree cover, the quality of theunderstorey is variable. Much has been altered by grazing by introduced species, weedinvasion (notably introduced pasture grasses) or excessive slashing of the understorey.Relatively intact examples have a very high diversity of species (including a wide range ofground orchids, many of which are in severe decline in the region), and consequently areconsidered to be of particular importance. Considerations such as continuity of nativevegetation and the size of remnant patches have important implications for the capacity ofmany species to remain viable in the long term.Herb-rich Foothill Forest is far more extensive in the ranges to the north and north-east ofHurstbridge, and the local examples are approaching the edge of the environmental rangeof the vegetation type. While perhaps less significant at a State to regional scale thanexamples of other vegetation types, they are never-the-less important at a local level aspart of the pattern of natural variation and as a component of the habitat diversity.The following species that are considered rare, threatened or inadequately known at theState-level have been recorded from the vicinity of the Hurstbridge township area. Some ofthese at least can be anticipated as still occurring within remnant vegetation within thetownship area. The relevant threat codes were supplied by the Flora Branch of theDepartment of Natural Resources and Environment. Some of these species are also at riskat a national level.Caladenia amoena Charming Spider-orchid (endangered in Victoria)Caladenia lindleyana Wine-lipped Spider-orchid (vulnerable in Victoria)Caladenia rosella Rosella Spider-orchid (endangered in Victoria)Callitriche brachycarpa Short Starwort (vulnerable in Victoria)Carex iynx Sedge (inadequately known)Desmodium varians Slender Tick-trefoil (inadequately known)Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily (endangered in Victoria)Eucalyptus yarraensis Yarra Gum (inadequately known)Marsilea mutica Smooth Nardoo (inadequately known)Pterostylis smaragdyna Emerald-lip Greenhood (rare in Victoria)Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 140

Hurstbridge Township StrategyIn addition a large number of species occurring in remnant bushland in the vicinity of thetownship can be considered of significance on a regional scale as a consequence of theirrarity or restricted range.Although somewhat altered, the township area is generally well vegetated. Cleared areasare generally limited to the Main Road area, open recreation fields, Fergusons Paddock,areas north and east of Bambara Road, the southern end of Christians Road and areas onthe western side of Flat Rock Road.Map 22 depicts tree cover within the Hurstbridge township. This map indicates thoseareas which still contain sections of forested and wooded land and also those areas whichhave largely been cleared. It is also interesting to note that within the residentiallydeveloped areas, that there are still areas that have been developed and which have areasonable cover of remnant trees.Pest PlantsNoxious weeds and environmental weeds are a major threat to private and public land.Noxious weeds can spread rapidly and degrade the existing bushland, riparian andremnant vegetation.Noxious weeds which include many agricultural pest plants such as Patersons Curse andSerrated Tussock are weeds that land owners are required to control under the Catchmentand Land Protection Act 1994. Environmental weeds include a wide range of species, manyof which are escapees from gardens, a number of which are native to Australia, but not theregion (e.g. various species of Grevillea and Wattle, Sweet Pittosporum and Sollya). Manywoody weeds and climbing or scrambling species are capable of invading and eventuallydominating vegetation, especially in favourable situations such as along streams.While the following list is far from comprehensive, it is focussed on the most invasive andcompetitive species. In drier habitats, the major problem species include MontpellierBroom, Flax-leaf Broom, Pines, Boneseed, Spanish Heath, Sweet Pittosporum, variouswattles (including Sallow Wattle and Coootamundra Wattle) and Bridal Creeper.Hawthorn, Briar Rose and Gorse can be problem species particularly on more fertile lowerslopes. A range of introduced grasses, notably Vernal Grass and Shell Grass have invadedmuch of the bushland area, and vigorous species such as Toowoomba Canary-grass(Phalaris), Cocksfoot, Yorkshire Fog and Brown-top Bent have occupied many more fertileor damper sites. St John’s Wort is another potentially vigorous invader, as are irids suchas Watsonia and Freesia.With increased development, weed problems in nearby remnant bushland typicallyincrease, as a consequence of edge effects around disturbed areas and the increasedavailability of potential weeds from gardens.Management IssuesIncremental loss of high quality bushland and plant species diversity continues to occur inthe region as a consequence of a wide range of factors. These include grazing and theeffects of feral animals such as rabbits, unsuitably timed or conducted slashing andmowing, piecemeal clearing, impacts of nutrient run-off and altered hydrologies, and weedinvasions. The displacement of native vegetation by dense growth of competitiveintroduced species is a major factor in many areas with otherwise largely benign land-use.The clearing of vegetation for residential development has a number of adverse effects.These can include: loss of amenity, loss of streetscape and neighbourhood character,increased erosion and dust pollution, adverse visual impacts and enabling the spread ofnoxious weeds and exotic plants.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 141

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 22 - vegetation CoverNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 142

Hurstbridge Township StrategySites of Faunal and Habitat ValuesThe Hurstbridge region possesses areas of significant faunal and floral value. Within thetownship area and its periphery, seven sites of faunal significance have been identifiedwithin Sites of Faunal and Habitat Significance in North East Melbourne (Beardsell 1997).Map 23 identifies the sites of habitat significance.Five sites of faunal and habitat significance identified by Beardsell (1997) occur within thestudy area and a further two sites occur just outside. Appendix K contains an extract ofcitations of areas in Hurstbridge. The sites are categorised based on accepted scientificcriteria as either of national, state or regional importance.Site boundaries are based on the habitat that is required for the long term viability offauna occurring within each site. If an area is located outside a defined site of faunal andhabitat significance it does not mean that that area is not environmentally significant. Allareas with native vegetation are environmentally significant but the areas that have beenidentified by Beardsell (1997) are important for maintaining existing populations,assemblages and species of native plants and animals at the regional, state or nationalscale. It is also important to note that environmental change occurring within individualsites will have an impact on adjoining sites.Table 12 summarises the faunal sites occurring within the study area. The table alsosummarises the two faunal sites just outside the study area. Threatening processesoccurring on each site together with the conservation measures needed to protect each siteare provided.Table 12: Sites of Faunal and Habitat Significance Occurring Within the StudyAreaSite 66:Site LocationStudy AreaHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresHurstbridge to Arthurs CreekLinear strip along Arthurs Creek from Midhurst to about 1 kmupstream of Chapel Lane. Approximately 500 ha.Linear strip along lower section of Arthurs Creek.High Category 3Regional Category 1Freshwater Blackfish, Southern Pigmy Perch and Mountain Galaxiain Arthurs Creek.• Fragmentation and loss of habitat;• Aquatic faunal populations in decline within the Arthurs Creekdue to reduced flow rates in Summer/Autumn, turbidity, highnutrient levels; and• Stream bank degraded due to bank erosion, weed invasion,uncontrolled stock access.• Strengthen Habitat links along the creek and to adjoiningbushland areas such as Dunmoochin, Pittles Paddock and HaleysGully Road Red Ironbark sites.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 143

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 23 – Fauna HabitatNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 144

Hurstbridge Township StrategySite 70:Site LocationStudy AreaHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresSite 72Site LocationStudy AreaHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresSite 73Site LocationStudy AreaHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresCherry Tree CreekCatchment of Cherry Tree Creek between the Kangaroo St AndrewsRoad and Church Road.Includes land along Cherry Tree Road, Flat Rock Road, SchaefferRoad.Medium Category 2Regional Category 2Variety of vegetation types, amphibia in Cherry Tree Creek, CommonWombat and Black Wallaby.• No effective habitat links are present arboreal mammals andground fauna are threatened; and.• Weeds problems including Boneseed, Montpellier Broom and FlaxLeaf Broom.• Strengthen habitat links by preventing further habitatfragmentation by preventing vegetation loss and increasingindigenous planting.Hurstbridge to Kangaroo Ground Red IronbarksRed Ironbark ridges and valleys west of Flat Rock Road from theKangaroo Ground - St Andrews Road to north of Dewar Drive.Dewar Drive, Sprys Lane, Heather Ave, Temple Ridge Reserve,Hillcrest Rd.Very High Category 1Regional Category 1Charming Spider Orchid, Red Ironbark Box - Ironbark woodland alongHeather Ave, habitat suitable for Black Wallabies, Brown Antechinusand Brush Tailed Phascogale, butterflies at Temple Ridge.• Fragmentation and loss of Red Ironbark woodland.• Existing stands of Red Ironbarks should be protected andmanaged; and• Protect populations of Charming Spider Orchid.Plenty River- Diamond Creek LinkCatchment of Diamond Creek between Bannons Lane and IronbarkRoad.Kendalls Lane, Springhill Rd, Batman Ave, Valley View Rd, FawknerCres.Medium Category 2Regional Category 2Fauna within Kendalls Lane valley, strategic habitat link.• Habitat modification and clearing of native vegetation; and• Loss of populations of insectivorous bird species reflectingfragmentation of bushland. Loss of bushland birds for exampleWhite throated Gerygone, Satin Flycatcher, and AustralianGoshawk.• Strengthen strategic habitat link. This is the most importantlink between the Plenty River and Diamond Creek.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 145

Hurstbridge Township StrategySite 74Site LocationStudy AreaHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresWattle Glen to HurstbridgeTributaries and Diamond Creek from Scrubby Creek Wattle Glen toopposite Bambara Road Hurstbridge.Linear link along Diamond Creek from Bambara Rd heading south tothe end of Diamond Valley Secondary College site. Includes land onwestern side of Diamond Creek including Meander Road.Medium Category 1Regional Category 1Mountain Galaxias and Southern Pigmy Perch in Diamond Creek,Ferguson Paddock Wetlands, Intact riparian and hill-slope vegetationopposite the Diamond Valley Secondary College.• Declining water quality of the Diamond Creek;• Fragmentation of habitat links restricting faunal movement;• Faunal road fatalities particularly wallabies, kangaroos, koalasand wombats; and• Defoliation of Blakely’s Red Gum.• Re-establishment of habitat link along the Diamond Creek willencourage koalas to return;• Provide effective habitat links to adjoining sites of faunalsignificance; and• Protect the hill slopes opposite the Diamond Valley SecondaryCollege site.Adjoining Sites of Faunal and Habitat SignificanceSite 68Site LocationHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresDunmoochinDunmoochin Rd between Barreenong Rd, Dunmoochin Rd, Patullos Rdand Christian Rd.Very High Category 1State Category 3Critical Conservation Area, extensive intact lowland foothill vegetationsupporting a range of threatened flora and fauna.• Habitat fragmentation of adjoining bushland isolatingDunmoochin bushland;• Excessive firewood collection and resultant habitat loss; and• Weed invasion particularly introduced grasses.• Identify and protect Rosella spider-orchid areas; and• Revegetate farmland surrounding Dunmoochin bushland.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 146

Hurstbridge Township StrategySite 71Site LocationHabitatSignificanceFaunalSignificanceFeaturesThreateningProcessesConservationMeasuresHaleys Gully/Ironbark Road Red IronbarksStands of Red Ironbark between Kendalls Lane and Boyds Road and onIronbark Road near Broad Gully Road south-east of Yarrambat.Medium Category 1State Category 3Red Ironbark woodland supporting range of nectar feeding birdsincluding the Regent Honeyeater.• Destruction and fragmentation of Red Ironbarks has lead todecrease in avifauna particularly honeyeaters; and• fragmentation of habitat link.• Strengthen habitat link between Plenty River and DiamondCreek; and• Prevent further clearance and degradation of Red Ironbarkwoodland.Land Ownership and Sites of Faunal and Habitat SignificanceSites of faunal and habitat significance occur generally on large privately owned land thathas not been subdivided and areas of public ownership along the Diamond Creek and in theTemple Ridge Reserve. The residential areas of Hurstbridge, whilst retaining manymature native eucalypts, are unable to support sufficient native faunal species to berecognised as of faunal and habitat significance. In order to retain the existingbiodiversity it is important that the areas identified within a site of faunal and habitatsignificance be protected and if possible enhanced through revegetation, weed controlprograms and education.Strategic Habitat LinksHurstbridge is located within a number of strategic habitat corridors that are recognised inBeardsell (1997). These include the habitat corridors along the Diamond and ArthursCreeks, overland corridors linking the Diamond Creek to the Plenty River and theDiamond Creek to bushland in Panton Hill and Watsons Creek. A Regional Habitat LinkStrategy outlined by Beardsell (1997) stresses the importance of strategic habitat links inmaintaining faunal/habitat at a regional level. Protecting existing habitat links within theHurstbridge area is critical to maintaining faunal species in the local area and throughoutthe Shire.Land Use and Environmental ThreatsHurstbridge’s development is a reflection of the topography, physical features (e.g.Diamond and Arthurs Creeks) and planning controls that have restricted urbandevelopment beyond the township boundaries. The general steepness of the terrain hasresulted in lots that are sufficiently large to allow for the retention of many indigenouseucalypts. The surrounding hinterland of Hurstbridge comprises mainly bush allotmentsand hobby farms.Due to the variety of vegetation communities and the ecological values of the Diamond andArthurs Creek, Hurstbridge and its hinterland are of high environmental significance.Whilst there are specific environmental issues facing Hurstbridge, many of these are alsocommon to the Shire as a whole.Five key environmental threats identified by Beardsell (1997), and listed in the NillumbikShire Council Municipal Strategic Statement, that are highly relevant to Hurstbridgeinclude:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 147

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• habitat destruction, modification and fragmentation mainly through land clearingand other processes such as dieback;• water quality decline as a result of pollution, soil erosion, reduced flow rates and poorcatchment management;• urban/human disturbance, particularly the impact of residential development,recreational activities and fire;• declining range/population of rare or threatened native species caused by habitat lossand ecosystem imbalances favouring certain species to the detriment of other species;and• introduced species impact - notably noxious and environmental weeds, foxes, rabbitsand the loss of limited resources such as hollow logs as a result of direct competition.Aboriginal HeritagePrior to European arrival, the Shire of Nillumbik was occupied by the Wurundjeri-willamclan of the Woi wurring speaking people. The arrival of Europeans in the Port Phillipregion in the 1830’s had a significant impact on the Woi-wurrung population. As the landin this region was taken over for farming and later for mining, traditional hunting andfishing grounds disappeared, sacred and significant sites were destroyed, lost or entryforbidden. Within two years of settlement, Wurundjeri people were being forced offtraditional land into reserves and missions (du Cros 1996).A large number of existing and potential Aboriginal archaeological sites have beenidentified within the Shire, testifying to long-term Aboriginal occupation. The NillumbikShire Aboriginal Heritage Study, carried out by du Cros and Associates (1996), identifies asignificant number of sites containing isolated artefacts and scarred trees etc, however, nosites have been identified in the Hurstbridge area. Even so, potentially there are heritagesites in the Shire which have not yet been identified or are not public knowledge.Post Contact Cultural HeritageHurstbridge takes its name from the Hurst family, the first descendant of which settled inthe area in 1853. Henry Hurst took over the grazing property of the first settler CorneliusHaley which at that stage comprised 65ha of grazing property and 3443ha of leased landwhere Hurstbridge now stands. Henry Hurst built a wooden bridge close to the junction ofBack and Arthurs Creeks where they become Diamond Creek, and it became known asHurst’s Bridge, from which the town later took its name. The original bridge was pulleddown in 1917 when it was replaced by the existing bridge, now known as Monash Bridge.The surrounding region became an important fruit growing area around the turn of thecentury. This local industry was influential in the extension of the Melbourne railwayservice from Eltham to Hurstbridge in 1912 (Pioneers and Painters, 1979).Many historic buildings, bridges and other historic sites remain today. The former Shire ofEltham carried out a heritage study in 1992 to identify historic sites and buildings. A largenumber of sites of historic value were identified, however, no further steps were taken byEltham Council to protect these sites. In 1996, the Shire of Nillumbik commissioned asecond study to amalgamate all the historic sites within the Shire of Nillumbik into onedocument to include heritage sites identified in the former Shires of Eltham, DiamondValley and Whittlesea.Only three sites within the Hurstbridge township are protected under the existingNillumbik Planning Scheme. A further twenty-one properties within Hurstbridge areproposed to be included in an amendment for inclusion within the New Format NillumbikPlanning Scheme that were identified in the Nillumbik Shire Heritage Study. The sitesbeing considered for inclusion in this proposed amendment are:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 148

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 13: Heritage SitesHeritage Place No. AddressFormer State School 3939, now Scout Hall 20 Anzac AvenueFormer teacher’s residence of State School 22 Anzac AvenueHurst Family Cemetery, Atlas Cedar, 4-8 Greysharps RoadCanary Island Pine, Peppercorn and StonePine, at Hurstbridge Pre-School*Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box)* 5 Hurstbridge-Arthurs CreekRoadHurstbridge Uniting Church, hall and 1006 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadMonterey CypressAllwood House, Cabbage palms (2), Thread 901 Heidelberg Kinglake Roadpalms (2) and Peppercorn trees (4)St Peter’s Anglican Catholic Church 1053 Heidelberg Kinglake RoadWeatherboard House 780 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadVictorian Railways weatherboard residence 781 Heidelberg-Kinglake Road1985, Chinese windmill palm and MontereycypressPortable cell block at Hurstbridge Police 792 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadStationHurstbridge Post Office - former Evelyn 794 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadObserver OfficeWeatherboard milk bar and attached house 804 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadDaraville - weatherboard house 828 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadFire Bell Tree (Yellow Box) 832 Heidelberg-Kinglake Road (roadreserve)Railway electricity substation 833 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadWeatherboard house and corrugated iron 805 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadgarageBank, former 901 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadFormer butcher’s shop and house 919 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadWeatherboard shop and dwelling 956 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadWeatherboard shop, corrugated iron 960 Heidelberg-Kinglake Roadbuilding and weatherboard house to rearWeatherboard shop and residence 964 Heidelberg-Kinglake RoadReinforced concrete arched bridge*Hurstbridge-Arthurs CreekRoadBurkes Bridge - timber trestle road bridgeHurstbridge-Arthurs CreekRoadHawthorn hedge and post and rail fence 235 Hurstbridge-Arthurs CreekremainsRoadHelen Laycock residence and 2 adjacent 95 Patullos RoadbuildingsSource: Bick 1996Note sites with an asterisk (*) are currently protected under the Nillumbik PlanningScheme.While these sites are significant for their historic and cultural value, they also reinforce the‘rustic’ character of the town and are significant in contributing to townscape ofHurstbridge.Townscape/LandscapeHurstbridge’s village character results from a combination of natural and constructedelements that provides the town and its community with a ‘sense of place’. The protectionof these natural and cultural features of the community and enhancement of thesequalities makes for a more pleasant place to live, work and visit.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 149

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe existing townscape of Hurstbridge is characterised by its strong linear form along theHeidelberg-Kinglake Road. The general informal layout of Hurstbridge has had a greatinfluence on the townscape character. The existing built form of the town relates stronglyto the mix of early 20th century houses and shops along the Main Road. The past trend forshopfronts with attached dwellings is still evident within the town centre even though theresidential use may have lapsed. This built form in association with the qualities of thesurrounding vegetation, geology and topography combine to give Hurstbridge a ‘particular’rural character and a strong sense of place (Henshall Hansen Associates, 1989).In an earlier strategy for Hurstbridge prepared by Henshall Hansen Associates (1989), anumber of features were identified which are still fundamental to the existing character ofHurstbridge:• the soft natural edges to the streetscape comprising established native trees andother planting offering shelter and shade as well as an attractive rural setting for thebuilt environment;• pedestrian paths which wander through the town centre and lead outwards to thesurrounding residential areas, open spaces and nearby community facilities;• a combination of well planted setbacks to the roadway and strong built form edgeswhere older buildings, often with verandahs, front the street;• a collection of earlier timber buildings, both dwellings and shop fronts, withcorrugated iron gable roofs and simple architectural features, adding interest anddiversity to the townscape;• the natural setting of the town centre, with well wooded hills and waterwayscomplementing and reinforcing the rural character of the Hurstbridge township; and• residential development nestled amongst the hills, with the town centre forming adefined urban area easily recognisable to visitors and passers by.Heidelberg-Kinglake Road – typical weatherboard building with verandah.Hurstbridge has managed to retain much of its informal rural style unlike other activitycentres such as Eltham and Warrandyte, where some of the intrinsic qualities have beenreplaced by more modern and less sympathetic treatments. It is imperative that this trenddoes not influence future use and development within Hurstbridge and destroy the featureswhich attract people to live, work and visit this township.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 150

Hurstbridge Township StrategyAlthough much of the town centre retains its old style character and charm somedevelopments built over the last few decades adopted built form that are unsympathetic tothe streetscape character. A more sensitive approach needs to be taken to ensure newdevelopment has a more rural style and theme that is consistent with the existingcharacter of the Main Road streetscape, without having a ‘mock’ design basis.Landscaping through the town centre is generally restricted to the area between ParkerRoad and Anzac Avenue, where some landscaping has occurred along the sloping vergesbetween the street and the pathways. Landscaping to the northern section of the towncentre is limited to some street planting of native trees.The current profile of Main Road is not entirely conducive to promoting a positive image ofthe area. The town centre presents a segregated approach with the southern sectiondisplaying the towns old charm while the northern section displays a more modernapproach, right down to the road construction, with little to integrate the two areas. Bothareas could be improved and interlinked through the use of consistent tree planting andlandscaping, uniform paving and street furniture and perhaps using signage to interlinkthe shopping precincts, which would reinforce the town’s image.WildfireAlthough many people are attracted to the area for its natural beauty, the combination ofsteeply sloping land and high vegetation cover also increases the risk of fire hazard. Firehazard mapping usually has regard to the frequency of fire season, slope-aspect, slopesteepness,vegetation and fire history. Often lots within areas with a high fire risk area arecharacterised by a lack of, or a lower level of, reticulated services, and access along oftenlengthy, steep, narrow and unsealed roads.The current maps depicting wildfire hazard (refer Map 24) indicate that most ofHurstbridge and the surrounding area are at potential risk from wildfire. There are threemain clusters where several areas identified as wildfire hazard appear. The first is thearea south of Haleys Gully Road/southwest of Springhill Road/southern end of MeanderRoad. Another is the northern end of Christians Road and the western bank of theDiamond Creek. The third area is the eastern edge of the township from AnzacAvenue/Taylor Road through to Silvan Road and beyond. Assessment needs to be made ofsuitable subdivision design, safe access, water supply and building design in these areas.Key Points - Environment• Significant areas of native vegetation remain adjacent to the township.• Existing development is largely confined by the ridges, immediately adjacent to thetown centre leaving some valleys and gullies and outer lying ridge areasundeveloped.• Much of the native vegetation has been modified and is under threat from weedinvasion and poor land management practices• Significant areas of faunal habitat are largely undisturbed (although there ispressure to develop many areas which are of high faunal and habitat significance inthe outer lying areas).• Retention of the creek corridors and adjoining open space areas are valuableenvironmental features of the township.• Urban/residential containment, restricting the township to defined parameters withmostly undeveloped bushland covered allotments surround the town.• Steeply sloping land remains undeveloped on the township fringe.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 151

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 24 - wildfireNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 152

Hurstbridge Township Strategy6.3 Rural Land UseSubdivisionThe Shire of Nillumbik was originally surveyed from the early 1840s, with settlementestablishing from the 1850s when gold was found in the area. With the exception of thebroadscale farming areas in the north and north-west of the Shire and conservation areasaround Kinglake National Park, Christmas Hills and Watsons Creek, land was generallysubdivided into 8 hectare (20 acre) parcels.The minimum lot size for subdivision has remained at eight hectares since 1971 when‘Landscape Interest’ zones were introduced as an amendment to the MelbourneMetropolitan Planning Scheme. At the time these minimums were introduced, it wasrecognised that many lots were already less than eight hectares in area, however, it wasconsidered that any further subdivision would compromise the environmental andlandscape values of land in non-urban areas.An analysis of lot sizes of land within the study area, excluding township areas, indicatesthat the 79 lots are between 0-3.9 hectares in area. Most of these low density-allotmentsare contained within the Caroline Crescent and Fawkner Crescent estates, and the balancebeing sited mainly along Haleys Gully Road, Wattle Tree Road and Prospect Hill Crescenton the township edge. Most of these allotments have already been developed.Sixty three properties are between 0.4 to 1.99 hectares in area. Lots of this size are locatedpredominantly to the north-west of the existing township boundary around Bingley Roadand Haleys Gully Road. Approximately a dozen sites are located to the east (Mills Road)and south-east (Dewar Drive) of the township.Most other properties surrounding the township edge and along the perimeter of the studyarea are between 2.0 and 7.99 hectares in area. Only 5 lots within the study area aregreater than 8 hectares. These larger lots tend to be located further north and south of theHurstbridge township. Many of these lots, however, are well vegetated and have highenvironmental values. Urban development is contained within well defined boundaries,with rural-residential development located between larger acreages to the north-west,north-east and south-east of the town.Land UseWhile much of the Shire is rural in nature, there is only a small proportion of large scaleagricultural enterprises. Broad scale agricultural enterprises tend to be concentrated tothe north and north-west of the Shire. Small agricultural enterprises, however, areprevalent in many rural areas of the Shire.Some rural land on the Hurstbridge township fringe is used for agricultural purposes.Much of the undeveloped land on the urban fringe of Hurstbridge is steep and heavilyvegetated, constraining the agricultural use of these properties. Cleared land to the northand south west of the township have largely been developed as low density-residentialproperties with few of these lots being used for agricultural purposes.Aerial photos taken in 1998 show that a number of properties further east and north-eastof the Hurstbridge township are being used for the production of crops, particularly onthose allotments east of Mills Road and along Cherry Tree Road. The production of grapesis a new commodity being established in the Nillumbik region, and which is evident as agrowing industry in the Hurstbridge area.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 153

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 2 urban/ruralNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 154

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 25 depicts the rural land uses of the township fringe. There is a combination of lowdensity residential development and rural land. Most of the rural land comprisesvegetated bushland properties.Rural LifestyleMany of the township’s residents find Hurstbridge appealing because of the large ruralallotments and the natural environment that exists. Although the majority of residentslive within the urban areas of Hurstbridge, many people have been attracted to the largerlots on the fringe of the township. Many of these rural areas are highly valued for theirenvironmental qualities as well as the added attraction of the distant views.Rural Living – property on Flat Rock RoadLand use conflicts can arise, however, when the pursuit of views by private landowners(such as building on ridgelines to maximise views) conflicts with the landscape values. Thepressure to further develop rural land can also impact on environmental and conservationvalues and the provision of infrastructure.More recently conflicts involving low density residential development and other rural useshave related to conflicting expectations of long term landowners and those moving ontoresidential allotments. The most obvious conflicts result from the close proximity ofagricultural and residential activities. New residents often have high residential amenityexpectations which conflict with the realities of agricultural production including noise,smell and dust.Rural Land and Property ManagementInappropriate land management is a significant threat to the local environment. It iswidely recognised that owners and managers need to take responsibility for themaintenance and enhancement of land. This may require further education to createawareness of the environmental concerns in the local area and how they can contribute to asolution.Key Points - Rural Land Use• The existing subdivisional pattern of rural land was created as a result of controlsintroduced in 1971 to retain conservation and landscape values.• Rural land around Hurstbridge has been largely developed as low density residentialproperties.• A large proportion of rural land remains vegetated.• New agricultural enterprises are establishing in the Hurstbridge area.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 155

Hurstbridge Township StrategyMap 25 - edgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 156

Hurstbridge Township Strategy6.4 Economic DevelopmentThe main commercial activity precincts within the Shire are concentrated in Eltham andDiamond Creek. Regional and higher order centres are based outside of the Shire andinclude: Greensborough Shopping Centre, Northland in Preston, Westfield Shoppingtownin Doncaster and the St Helena Shopping Centre.Hurstbridge is a long-established small local shopping centre, with its main role to servethe township and hinterland population. The township centre provides an important focusfor local shopping, community activities and commercial services. Hurstbridge also has acomplementary tourism role with visitors attracted to the area by the antique shops,second hand furniture shops, restaurants and cafes.This section considers the Hurstbridge commercial centre and comments on its future rolebased on an economic and land use analysis. Since 1994, Hurstbridge has lost twosignificant commercial activities - the petrol station and the bank. There is growingcommunity concern that further services could be lost including the train and policestations and potentially other commercial businesses and community services.Commercial activity for the town can be separated into two key economic sectorscomprising retail/commercial uses and tourism.Retail/CommercialThe town centre has a mixed tenure providing both a local service and a growing tourismfunction. The Hurstbridge town centre, which incorporates both retail shops andcommunity services, serves a catchment of approximately 5,000 people which includes thesurrounding hinterland population.Retail and commercial activity is primarily located along Main Road between Parker andCherry Tree Roads.Map 26 shows that within the commercial centre there are a combination of residential,commercial and industrial land uses. There are approximately 30 shopfront retailingestablishments and a host of other business and community service establishments. Inaddition to the commercial uses there are a number of dwellings located along the MainRoad many operating as home based businesses. This is a growing trend within the Shireand has the benefit of allowing many residents to live local and work locally. Homeoccupation has the advantage of minimising costs such as rent, overheads and travellingexpenses. Home based business is to be encouraged provided that the amenity of theHurstbridge area is not adversely affected.The commercial centre also contains several vacant allotments and buildings. A number ofthese sites are currently being used for carparking for adjacent businesses or for use asstorage yards, such as the two vacant sites adjoining the hardware business north of theAnzac Avenue intersection. The former petrol station and store further north of the towncentre have been vacant for over two years and represent a significant developmentopportunity.Land south of the Main Road and Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road intersection isprimarily being used for industrial purposes. This land is owned and leased by the PublicTransport Corporation. There is some concern that these industrial sites, particularly thetransport depot, bottle collection depot and train parking area, have an adverse impact onthe visual appearance of the streetscape and should be removed or screened in the interim.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 157

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 26 - town centreNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 158

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 3 main streetNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 159

Hurstbridge Township StrategyAlthough the commercial centre of Hurstbridge has a supermarket and a range of retailshops, the primary emphasis is on convenience shopping. The commercial centrepredominantly provides for weekly and day-to-day lower order goods and services. Thetown is increasingly establishing as a tourist destination and the type of retailestablishments reflects this.The town is an important focus for local shopping and community activities, however, thereality is that many of the catchment’s residents travel to larger centres for regular weeklyshopping trips and for ‘higher order’ items (clothes, white goods, furniture, etc), items thatare not necessarily available in the town. It is estimated that possibly as much as 80% ofthe available spending of catchment residents is lost to larger centres located elsewhere inthe Shire (Diamond Creek or Eltham) and to other larger retail centres such asGreensborough and Northland (Essential Economics 1999).The trading pattern of residents to shop beyond the town centre can be related to suchfactors as the dispersed nature of the surrounding populations, competition from larger and‘more attractive’ shopping centres, the high mobility of residents and place of employment(largely in metropolitan Melbourne).It is important that local businesses are coordinated, energetic and innovative in theirmarketing of the township centre. Furthermore, organisations such as the HurstbridgeTraders Association should be encouraged and offered support. This will help them worktowards activities such as: ensuring a good tenancy mix for the township, runningpromotions, facilitating streetscape improvement works and driving professionaldevelopment programs for local business people.Business and Employment ProfileThe Hurstbridge town centre plays a role in a number of sectors including retail trade,property and business services, construction, health and community services and personalservices. The primary focus of the township centre is, however, in providing retail servicesfor the local community. The retail sector employs the largest number of local residentswithin Hurstbridge than any other type of industry. However, it should be noted thatHurstbridge Abattoir is an important employer of local residents.Table 14 outlines the estimated number of jobs in Hurstbridge. It is considered that mostof these jobs would be held by people from the local community or possibly neighbouringtownships.Table 14: Estimated Number of Jobs in HurstbridgeSectorEstimated No.%of JobsRetailing - local services 70 23.3Tourism 30 10.0Service business/service industry 40 13.3Community (police, post office, etc) 50 16.7Abattoir 80 26.7Other 30 10.0Total local jobs 300 100.0Source: Essential Economic 1999Main RoadThe township centre with its unique mix of shops and interesting architecture provides akey focus for tourism. Existing retail floorspace provision in Hurstbridge township isestimated at 3,100m 2 (Essential Economics 1999). Approximately 32% of retail floor spaceis directed at mainly visitor and tourist needs. These businesses include: antique shops;second hand furniture shops; restaurants; and cafes. Within the township there are also aNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 160

Hurstbridge Township Strategynumber of ‘alternative’ shops including natural therapies, health food and a vegetariancafe.In addition to the type of shops provided, the township character is also significant. Manyof the buildings along Main Road are good examples of early twentieth century architectureand consist of an attractive mix of commercial and residential uses.In addition to the built form of the commercial area, its setting amidst an attractive andabundant environment further reinforces the village atmosphere of Hurstbridge whichprovides an alternative to the ‘hustle and bustle’ of more suburban environments.Although the Hurstbridge shops are arguably the focal point of tourism within thetownship, other attractions within the Hurstbridge district include the creek corridors andlarge open space areas that provide passive and active recreation activities.TourismNillumbik’s role as a tourist destination is currently evolving, as it is a relative tourismnewcomer. The Shire of Nillumbik is bordered by areas considerably more advanced in thetourism lifecycle, such as the Yarra Valley, and is only now undertaking projects toincrease its profile in an attempt to capture some of the tourism market.The Shire of Nillumbik is well endowed with natural resources characterised by habitats ofNational, State and Regional significance. Over 300 sites of heritage significance have alsobeen identified - many of which have strong tourism potential. The Nillumbik TourismReport prepared by La Trobe University in 1996, identified that Nillumbik Shire has arange of secondary and tertiary attractions capable of attracting local, regional, intra andinterstate domestic visitors. The Hurstbridge shops, the natural environment and nearbywineries were identified by the report as some of the chief attractions.Hurstbridge has the opportunity to build upon these features to increase its share of thetourism market through a coordinated approach with adjoining tourism regions. Thetourism role of Hurstbridge should be nurtured as it offers a sustainable developmentoption for the township. It is important, however, that tourism not expand to the detrimentof the township as a service centre to the local community and the natural environmentthat is integral to Hurstbridge’s identity.New development should be in keeping with the streetscape and townscape character,particularly tourism related development. Presently there are no design or sitingprovisions to guide development in the township centre.The existing streetscape should be further enhanced to provide a more attractiveenvironment for visitors, as existing landscaping along Main Road is inconsistent andcreates a sense of disunity. Furthermore, the township centre is poorly signposted.Hurstbridge has great potential to benefit from the success of growing tourism in both theShire of Nillumbik and more advanced regions such as the Yarra Valley and to a lesserextent the Dandenong Ranges. Hurstbridge is at the gateway to the Kinglake NationalPark and the Yarra Valley Region and stands to benefit from people passing through thetown to these regions. It also within proximity to other popular Nillumbik attractionsincluding: St Andrews Market; Panton Hill; and local wineries.Hurstbridge also has the benefit of being located close to metropolitan Melbourne,appealing to day-trippers and visitors from other parts of Melbourne who wish to explorethe ‘countryside’ without having to travel too far to reach it. Hurstbridge is well servicedwith connector roads and is accessible from all directions. The Western Ring Road andconnecting Greensborough By-Pass have further increased accessibility for people visitingNillumbik and accordingly decreased travel time by car.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 161

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 4 brown houseNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 162

Hurstbridge Township StrategyHurstbridge is one of the four train stations located in the Shire, providing access forvisitors within and outside the Shire. It is common for cyclists to travel by train toNillumbik and then cycle further north into the hills or south, back towards the city. Theproposed extension of the bicycle track between Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge wouldfurther promote the area.One of Hurstbridge’s greatest opportunities is to capitalise upon current trends forenvironmental (eco-tourism) and other alternative tourism experiences. A cross section ofthe community is keen to promote tourism within Hurstbridge and surrounds, howevermany stress that the natural environment must not be damaged in this process.In addition to enhancing the township centre, other opportunities that may encouragegrowth of the tourist market are the proposed heritage trail, niche marketing of a uniquemix of shops, linkages between the township centre and adjacent open space areas and theestablishment of wineries and small agricultural enterprises. There is scope to furtherdevelop tourism opportunities in the Hurstbridge area by promoting businesses such as:vineyards and wineries, hemp clothing manufacturers, restaurants / cafes, horse and ponyfarms, organic fruit and vegetable producers, strawberry farms, herb / plant nurseries andearthworm cultivation.The role of Hurstbridge as a ‘tourist centre’ is likely to grow as further co-ordination,development and promotion of tourism is facilitated by bodies such as the NillumbikTourism Association and Nillumbik Shire Council.Employment and IndustryTable 15 indicates that in 1996 the majority of Hurstbridge residents were employed withinthe retail trade with a total of 212 people (13.5%). 210 (13.4%) were employed within themanufacturing industry. Other industries with high representation of employed peoplewere health and community services (11.2%), education (9.8%), construction (8.6%),property and business services (7.7%) and wholesale trade (6.4%).Table 15: Employment by Industry - Hurstbridge ResidentsIndustry Category Persons (Employed) %Retail Trade 212 13.5Manufacturing 210 13.4Health and community services 176 11.2Education 154 9.8Construction 135 8.6Property and business services 120 7.7Wholesale Trade 101 6.4Personal and other services 82 5.2Finance and insurance 63 4.0Cultural and recreational services 53 3.4Communication services 52 3.3Govt. administration and defence 50 3.1Transport and storage 43 2.7Non-classifiable and not stated 42 2.7Accommodation, cafes and restaurants 30 1.9Agriculture, forestry and fishing 25 1.6Electricity, gas and water 18 1.2Mining 3 0.3Total 1569 100.0Source: ABS 1996Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 163

Hurstbridge Township StrategyTable 16: Weekly Individual Income by AgeIncome 1996 Persons %Negative Income 9 0.4Nil Income 142 6.5$1-$119 256 11.7$120-$299 425 19.4$300-$499 445 20.3$500-$699 334 15.3$700-$999 325 14.9$1000-$1499 71 3.2$1500 or more 21 1.0Not stated 157 7.1Overseas visitor 3 0.2Total 2188 100.0Source: ABS 1996Table 16 shows that 38% of Hurstbridge residents aged over 15 earn $119.00 or less whichis well below the average for the Melbourne metropolitan statistical area of 45.7%. Only 92persons earn more than $1,000.00 per week with most (39.7%) residents earning between$120 and $499 per week.Household income in Hurstbridge and the wider municipality is higher than that for theMelbourne metropolitan average. Over 55% of households in the study area have a grossweekly income of $700.00 compared to 44% of households in the Melbourne StatisticalDivision.Key Points - Economic Development• The township centre’s primary function is to serve the local community with acomplementary tourism function.• Some opportunities for further retail and commercial development within the MainRoad.• Retail sector employs the largest number of Hurstbridge residents.• Approximately one-third of retail floor space within the township centre is primarilydirected at visitor and tourist needs.• Tourism represents an environmentally sustainable option for continued and furthereconomic growth of the township.• Tourism should not expand to the detriment of the township character and naturalenvironment.Main Road, HurstbridgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 164

Hurstbridge Township Strategy6.5 InfrastructureInfrastructure includes: physical infrastructure, (roads sewerage provisions, gas, water andelectricity) and community facilities and open space.The provision of infrastructure and cost effectiveness of providing services will influencethe future development and direction of the township.Road NetworkThe Hurstbridge township centre has developed as a linear strip-shopping precinct,straddling the Heidelberg-Kinglake Road from Parker Road in the south to Cherry TreeRoad in the north. Heidelberg-Kinglake Road (referred to as Main Road within theHurstbridge township) carries the majority of through traffic from settlements to the northand south.At the centre of the township, Main Road intersects with Arthurs Creek Road, whichservices residential areas to the west of the town, as well as linking Hurstbridge to outlyingsettlements to the north west such as Arthurs Creek and Nutfield. The continuation ofArthurs Creek Road to the east of Main Road forms Anzac Avenue which is a local roadservicing properties east of the township.Cherry Tree Road to the north of the township centre, which runs to the east of Main Road,connects Hurstbridge and Panton Hill.Heidelberg-Kinglake Road is a declared main arterial road while Arthurs Creek Road andCherry Tree Roads are collector roads which are maintained by Council. All other roads inthe immediate vicinity of the township are defined as being of local significance and aremanaged accordingly.Many of the local roads are unsealed. This is a feature that reinforces the town’s ruralatmosphere. It is noted however, that this is not entirely satisfactory in terms of thedemands being placed upon the roads with increasing residential development and greatervehicular use.The volumes of traffic along the Heidelberg-Kinglake Road are the highest of the threemain collector roads passing through the township. A traffic survey carried out inNovember 1998 indicated that there was an average of over 7,000 vehicle movementsduring the day, although significantly less vehicle movements were recorded on Sunday.Significantly less vehicle movements were recorded on Cherry Tree Road and ArthursCreek Road. There were an of approximately 2600 vehicle movements per day on CherryTree Road and 1300 vehicle movements per day on Arthurs Creek Road.Increased traffic resulting from new residential development has a number ofenvironmental impacts. This includes increased noise and air pollution from vehicles. Aswell as these concerns there is also likely to be an increase in the number of road kills,particularly as many of the fringe areas are habitat to a wide range of faunal species.Monash Bridge spans the Diamond Creek as part of Arthurs Creek Road forming the onlyaccess route for development west of the creek. This single lane bridge was constructed inearly 1900s and is of historic importance. Recent times have seen an increase in thevolumes of traffic using the bridge particularly as the western section of the town hasdeveloped. Existing agricultural uses around the area and the location of the abattoir tothe north of the township also means a significant numbers of heavy trucks also use thebridge. The delineation of Arthurs Creek Road and the narrow width of the bridge haveresulted in a number of accidents involving multiple vehicles and damage to the bridge.This is a concern to both local residents and Nillumbik Shire Council.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 165

Hurstbridge Township StrategyCar ParkingCar parking to serve the commercial centre of Hurstbridge is provided through parallelkerbside parking, some indented carparking allowing angle parking and off-street carparks. In addition to these, a number of off-street, non-public car spaces are used byshopkeepers and staff to the rear of some shops which are accessed by right-of-ways. Alarge commuter carpark is located adjacent to the train station, which is also used by somepeople visiting the shops. This car park comprises approximately 65 car parking spaces.The existing carparking layout is both unsatisfactory and also largely inefficient with anumber of sections being of particular concern. The southern section of Main Road,between Parker Road and Anzac Avenue is quite narrow and of insufficient width toprovide for safe and efficient parking along both sides of the road. There have beenincidents where cars have been side swiped by passing vehicles in this area.Direction signage to some carparking areas is insufficient, particularly for those personsunfamiliar with the area. A lack of lighting along Main Road above these signs increasesthe difficulty for those persons looking for off-street parking in the evening.Traffic Movement and ParkingThe Hurstbridge Town Centre Study (Henshall Hansen 1989) identified a number ofconcerns in relation to traffic access and parking in the township centre. It appears thatmany of these concerns are still valid in 2000. In particular the following concerns havebeen identified through the examination of existing traffic movements through the townand community input:• The speed of traffic passing through the town is too high due to an absence of trafficcalming measures and straight delineation of the road;• Congestion occurs near the butcher shop and fruit shop associated with parkingmanoeuvres from the informal angle parking on the west side of Main Road;• Safety problems exist at the pedestrian crossing adjacent to the post office;• Conflict exists as the school crossing serving the Hurstbridge Primary School,particularly outside normal school hours and at peak drop off/pick up times;• The spread out nature of the township centre encourages people to drive their carbetween trips further increasing parking pressure and exacerbating trafficcongestion;• Entrance to Hurstbridge train station is inappropriately located with motoristsvision obscured by buildings on the south corner;• Width of road is too narrow to support parking on either side of the road and twolanes of through traffic, particularly the section of Main Road. north of AnzacAvenue; and• Some car parking areas along Main Road are unsealed and create drainage problems,particularly in front of the green grocer in the southern section of the street.Although many of the concerns regarding vehicular movement and access are concentratedin the Main Road, a number of concerns and areas of conflict have been identified bothwithin the residential areas of the township and in the outer areas. One of the mostsignificant of these issues relates to the Monash Bridge, which is constrained by its narrowwidth. The following identifies some constraints of vehicle movement and access onHurstbridge’s other roads:• Monash Bridge is of single lane width creating congestion of traffic at either end;Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 166

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 5 - monash bridgeNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 167

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Large vehicles turning manoeuvrability is restricted by delineation of Arthurs CreekRoad and width of the bridge creating conflict with on-coming traffic. Large trucksneed to use both sides of the road to cross bridge;• Monash Bridge is continually damaged by vehicles, particularly by large vehicles,threatening its long term viability;• Any accident on the bridge prevents access to the western side of Hurstbridge whichcould be dangerous in times of emergency;• Weeds and other vegetation reduces visibility for motorists using the bridge;• Warning/traffic signs at entrances to bridge are poorly located and unclear;• Speeding traffic along collector roads and some local streets is too high due to lack oftraffic calming measures; and• Many local streets are unsealed with dust and erosion problems created.Public TransportHurstbridge is serviced by rail transit, being located at the end of the line connecting thetown to Melbourne’s central activities district via Eltham, Greensborough and Heidelberg.The railway runs parallel to Heidelberg-Kinglake Road to the west of the township centre.Train services are provided at approximately 50 minute intervals during the day and atweekends and at 30 minute intervals during commuter peak hours.A large commuter car park is located adjacent to the railway station for use by railtravellers with approximately 65 spaces provided. Access to this car park is located offMain Road just to the north of Parker Road. The entrance is poorly sign posted, and anexisting building on the corner of the carpark entrance reduces safety for car park users.Victorian Rail Track (VRT) owns most of the land surrounding the car park and station andretains the rights to carry out major projects within the rail corridor in the vicinity ofHurstbridge. Land in this corridor is currently leased to Alstom Melbourne Transport Ltdwho runs the trains and manages the infrastructure. Alstom Melbourne may approveminor improvements and small retail opportunities on this land. The area has poorlandscaping values and does not provide a positive image for commuters using the service.The carpark is also void of landscaping and feature designs and this detracts from thetownship centre.The township lacks an equivalent bus system and is largely dependent on car-basedtransport for connections with surrounding urban centres, and for access to employmentand community and commercial services. Hurstbridge does, however, have a local schoolbus network which ferries children between the primary and secondary schools in theregion from the more distant townships. A bus interchange area currently exists outsidethe former Diamond Valley Secondary College - Hurstbridge Campus. There is a need forthe provision of a bus service as some sections of the community are disadvantaged by thelocation of the train station. In addition a bus service could enable new routes to othersettlements that the railway does not service.People with low mobility are also greatly affected by the type and lack of public transport.Pedestrian AccessThe most easily identifiable pedestrian access routes within the Hurstbridge Townshipcomprise the formal sealed footpaths which exist primarily along Heidelberg-KinglakeRoad between Parker and Cherry Tree Road and some other busy residential streets e.g.Haleys Gully Road. However, due to the semi-rural nature and sloping topography of thetownship, footpaths are generally non-existent in most of the residential areas.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 168

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 6 - hurstbridge stationNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 169

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic 7 - rail yardNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 170

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThere are a large number of informal walking trails throughout the town providingvaluable linkages from the township centre to the western residential area near HaleysGully Road, and walking trails from the town centre to the former High School campus.Much of the parkland through the town also contains walking trails which meander alongthe creek, although the condition of these tracks varies and most deteriorate during thewinter months.Although the township centre is generally well equipped with pedestrian paths, linkagesbetween the various commercial, open space and residential precincts could be greatlyimproved. The following list identifies some areas of concern that have been identifiedthrough site inspections and community input:• Safety problems exist at the pedestrian crossing adjacent to the post office;• Pedestrian access to the station is inadequate, particularly for people with a mobilitydisability;• The school crossing provides insufficient pedestrian safety outside school hours;• Sections of the footpaths in Main Road north of Anzac Avenue are unsealed anderode in winter;• There is insufficient linkage of pedestrian paths from the Main Road to open spaceareas, particularly Fergusons Paddock;• The pedestrian path to the station along Greysharps Road is unsealed and is erodingin some areas;• There is no footpath or walking trail on the western side of Main Road between thegreen-grocer and Arthurs Creek Road intersection, creating a conflict between carmovement and pedestrians;• Many of the existing pedestrian paths are poorly sign posted;• Many paths are also unsealed and require upgrading works to facilitate safe andeasy movement; and• Some pedestrian networks may pose a problem for people with poor mobility due tothe poor condition and inappropriate surfacing of some footpaths in addition to thesteep gradients of some paths.GasThere is no reticulated natural gas supply available in the Hurstbridge township area.Provision of natural gas is generally constrained by the undulating topography of the areaand the prohibitive cost of installing the infrastructure to a low density residentialcommunity that is removed from the urban fringe.ElectricityElectricity is available to the township and surrounding areas. Hurstbridge is serviced byHigh Voltage Feeder lines which have an adequate rating to service existing development.If further development of the town were to occur some lines may need to be upgraded toprovide adequate service to some outlying areas.WaterWater supply to the Hurstbridge township is obtained from the Nutfield ClearwaterReservoir zone and Panton Hill zone. Existing infrastructure is adequate for the currentneeds of the community, however minor upgrades of the mains in the township may berequired if further development were to occur.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 171

Hurstbridge Township StrategySewerageMost residential areas are currently serviced by reticulated sewerage infrastructure,however this does not extend to outlying areas surrounding the township. If any furtherdevelopment of Hurstbridge were to occur beyond the existing township boundaries,upgrading of existing infrastructure would be needed to provide sewerage to these areas.Community FacilitiesSocial infrastructure is considered adequate for a town of its size in the area. Two of thekey community resources provided in the township centre are the community hall on MainRoad and Allwood House located on the corner of Main Road and Arthurs Creek Road.Allwood House is set in an attractive garden setting which is of historic significance. Thefacility provides for numerous community programs including emergency relief. The highfence surrounding the property fronting Main Road does not encourage pedestrian accessinto the centre, although there is a large carpark available at the rear of the building,accessed from Arthurs Creek Road.Hurstbridge is reasonably well serviced with school facilities for young children, with theprovision of two pre-schools and a primary school reflecting the high proportion of youngchildren in the area. The Diamond Valley Secondary College Hurstbridge Campus closedin mid 1999 and secondary school students now travel to the Diamond Creek campus.There are a number of groups catering for the elderly and these include the Senior CitizensClub and Probus. The topography of Hurstbridge, however, presents major barriers to theelderly and those with restricted mobility, particularly with regard to gaining access topublic transport and many of the retail and commercial businesses.Childcare and occasional childcare facilities in Hurstbridge are non-existent, and this is areal problem given the large number of children and nuclear families in the surroundingareaYouth services and facilities are lacking in the Hurstbridge area and this is a problem thatneeds to be addressed. In addition to the lack of services and facilities, young people arealso disadvantaged by the irregularity of public transport which is often the only means oftravelling, lack of employment opportunities in the township and distance of Hurstbridgefrom other suburbs providing employment, community and commercial activities.Other people in the community who are disadvantaged by existing facilities are people withlow mobility including the elderly and people with a physical disability.The loss of essential services such as the bank and petrol station has disadvantaged arange of people. This includes both the young and elderly with residents now required totravel elsewhere to carry out some of their essential services, which is difficult for thosepeople who do not own or drive a vehicle.Many of the Hurstbridge youth also experience disadvantages from the lack of existingservices and facilities. Like the elderly, young people are also affected by isolation and poorpublic transport networks. The train however is a significant lifeline for youth, connectingthem to employment and recreation opportunities.Open Space and RecreationThere are several key recreation precincts within the Shire that include both indoor andoutdoor activity centres and vast areas of parkland. Nillumbik Shire Council is committedto enhancing the recreational opportunities of its residents through the provision of adiverse range of open space opportunities, whilst at the same time protecting those openspace areas that have significant environmental and conservation values.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 172

Hurstbridge Township Strategypic - big paddockNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 173

Hurstbridge Township StrategyThe Hurstbridge township has an extensive area of public open space set aside forsportsgrounds and other passive recreation uses. These are primarily located on thewestern side of the railway and township centre, along the meandering routes of Diamondand Arthurs Creeks. Map 27 shows the location of reserves within Hurstbridge.The Ben Frilay Reserve located to the west of the town and accessed from Greysharps Roadconsists of large sporting ovals and is primarily used for active recreational purposesincluding cricket and football, while a lawn bowls club is also located towards the front ofthe reserve.The Diamond Valley Secondary College also contains a large oval to the south of the schooland a gymnasium. However with the closure of the Diamond Valley Secondary CollegeHurstbridge Campus, the possibility of providing these facilities is in doubt.The Hurstbridge Horse and Pony club is located in Fergusons Paddock near AllwoodHouse, however it is to be relocated further north. Fergusons Paddock also contains anumber of tennis courts that are well utilised.There are also significant areas of open space suitable for passive recreation includingFergusons Paddock, and other reserves along the creek corridor. Many of the riparianareas are currently being revegetated by a number of local community groups to improvethe environmental value and visual aspect.The township does not contain many indoor sporting facilities such as a swimming pool orbasketball/netball facilities. Neighbouring Diamond Creek and Eltham both containnumerous indoor sporting facilities.There are sufficient open space and recreational facilities within Hurstbridge, however, theuse of these facilities could be improved. Issues of concern that have been identifiedthrough site inspections and community input include:• The lack of car parking and pedestrian linkages providing easy and visible access toopen space, particularly Fergusons Paddock;• A lack of rubbish bins;• The need for BBQ and covered pergola areas to provide all weather shelter; and• There is poor signage indicating open space and recreation areas from Main Road.Key Points - Infrastructure• The road network feeds into Heidelberg-Kinglake Road in the township centre, withlarge volumes of thoroughfare traffic.• The layout of carparking in the township centre is insufficient and inefficient.• The traffic movement within township centre conflicts with pedestrian movement.• Monash Bridge identified as a key point of conflict within the whole road network.• Improved pedestrian access required with better linkages between functionalprecincts to reduce conflict between traffic and pedestrian movement.• No reticulated gas services in the town.• Water, sewerage and drainage services adequate, but not designed for significantexpansion of the town.• No youth and child care facilities.• Total amount of open space provision sufficient, however improvement to provision ofpublic facilities required.Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 174

Hurstbridge Township Strategymap 27 open spaceNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 175

Hurstbridge Township Strategy7. Conclusion7.1 Key Strategy ElementsThe key strategies identified for Hurstbridge are:• Planning for the strategic growth of Hurstbridge with limited areas for residentialgrowth.• Protecting natural resources of soil, water, flora and fauna in the area which areacritical for the maintenance of environmental quality.• Protecting the landscape and built character of the township.• Promoting economic development, particularly locally based employment, in retail,tourism and the service sector.• Ensuring residential development is in accordance with environmental capabilityand is coordinated with infrastructure provision.7.2 Moving ForwardThere is clear support from the community for a strategic approach to the future directionsfor Hurstbridge. A strategy plan can assist in fostering a common understanding of what isthe preferred in terms of new use and development, and what the vision for Hurstbridge is.The absence of a strategy can lead to ad-hoc decision making on the basis of short termoutcomes.The Hurstbridge Township Strategy seeks to provide a basis for ensuring use anddevelopment that occurs in Hurstbridge contributes to the qualities of the township. Inorder to achieve the long term vision for the township it will be necessary to take a series ofsteps which incrementally build towards the desired future.7.3 Implementation ProcessThe Strategy will be implemented in the following ways:• strategic - changes to the Nillumbik Municipal Strategic Statement, and potentiallyLocal Policies;• statutory - changes to the provisions of the new format Nillumbik Planning Scheme,made by way of an amendment;• advisory - use of the Strategy in giving advice to potential developers and thecommunity about appropriate land use and development in Hurstbridge;• investment - identifying location and type of preferred land use and development inHurstbridge;• capital works - guiding the type and location of capital works development andmaintenance in Hurstbridge; and• environmental management - coordinated with Council’s environmental worksprograms and interaction with environment groups and State Government agencies.Capital works and environmental management implementation will become a part ofCouncils budget process.The following process will follow the adoption of the Strategy:Nillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 176

Hurstbridge Township Strategy• Preparation of any amendments to the New Format Nillumbik Planning Scheme aspart of the implementation of the Strategy.• Any amendment will be subject to public exhibition and the provision for submissionsto be made. If necessary an independent Panel may be appointed to hearsubmissions. The amendment process follows the provisions of the Planning andEnvironment Act 1987;• Amendments for Township Zoning and other provisions are dependent on theoutcomes of the Nillumbik Housing Strategy (forthcoming);• Consideration of any budget allocation for projects identified in the Strategy,including capital works.Recommendations52. Consider amendments to Municipal Strategic Statement to incorporate therecommendations of the Hurstbridge Township Strategy.53. All recommendations related to capital works be referred to Council’s 10 year capitalworks program.54. All recommendations related to capital works be subject to additional communityconsultation and design work where appropriate.55. All recommendations related to additional budget commitments for projects orprograms be considered as part of Council’s budget preparation as appropriate.7.4 More InformationEnvironment and Cultural Planning SectionNillumbik Shire CouncilPO Box 476GREENBOROUGH VIC 3088Phone: 9433 3210Fax: 9432 9559E-mail: nillumbik@nillumbik.vic.gov.auNillumbik Shire Council – March 2002 177

APPENDIX AQUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS

APPENDIX BCONSULTATIVE TEAMS DIRECTIONS STATEMENTS

APPENDIX CCONSULTATIVE TEAM COMMENTS – DRAFT STRATEGY

APPENDIX DSUBMITTERS TO THE NEW FORMAT NILLUMBIKPLANNING SCHEME

APPENDIX ESWOT ANALYSIS

APPENDIX FPUBLIC SUBMISSIONS SUMMARY – DRAFT STRATEGY

APPENDIX GDIAMOND VALLEY SECONDARY COLLEGE SITE

APPENDIX HDEVELOPMENT PLANS

APPENDIX IDEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTIONS

APPENDIX JCOSTINGS

APPENDIX KNEROC REPORT - HURSTBRIDGE SITES