Table of Contents - Nillumbik Shire Council

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