May 19th, 2023Public input invited on Gisborne’s Willowbank Road proposal

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a combined planning scheme amendment and planning application that would see a long-envisaged development of commercial land on Willowbank Road to service the needs of residents in Gisborne’s south.

The proponent-led application seeks to rezone vacant residential land at 101-105 Willowbank Road in
Gisborne to a small commercial zone, to provide localised shopping and services to a growth area
earmarked by Council for such a development since 2009.
Plans for the site include a small supermarket, a medical centre, office and two cafés, along with 57
car parking spaces. Sustainable features include on-site power generation through rooftop solar, use
of recycled materials, storm water capture and retention, and an electric vehicle charging station.
Council’s Director Planning and Environment, Rebecca Stockfeld, said the proposed development
would prioritise active transport such as walking and cycling, enabling residents to more easily access
basic shopping needs and reduce car dependency.
“A commercial offering has been a long-term strategic vision for this area,” she said. “Having localised
options will help service the needs of the growing population, complementing what Gisborne’s town
centre currently provides.”
The development would also complement existing services in the area, including physiotherapy and
osteopathy clinics and an early learning centre.
Plans for the proposal can be viewed at mrsc.vic.gov.au/your-say, or in-person at the council’s Gisborne
and Kyneton service centres. The closing date for submissions is 13 June.
The council says it will consider all submissions received and appoint an independent Planning Panel if
necessary, with a final decision regarding the amendment to be made by the Minister for Planning.