Council will continue providing initial pre-application responses free of charge, clearly outlining mandatory information, plans and supporting documents required under the Gannawarra Planning Scheme for proposed developments, subdivisions or land use.
However, fees will apply from Wednesday, July 1 for applicants seeking additional follow-up advice on matters not covered in their initial inquiry.
“This new process will ensure applicants and/or their consultants receive clear, upfront advice so they can understand exactly what is required before lodging an application,” council chief executive Geoff Rollinson said.
“This process will reduce avoidable delays, minimise back-and-forth correspondence and help ensure applications are assessed as efficiently as possible.”
The pre-application response serves as a practical roadmap, outlining relevant planning controls and explaining information required for complete applications.
“This new approach will reduce application processing times, minimise unnecessary consultancy costs, avoid repeated requests for advice on the same matters and provide greater certainty for applicants,” Mr Rollinson said.
Council has also developed a planning permit and subdivision consultant checklist to support first-time applicants. The checklist helps residents understand included services, expected time frames, likely costs, required information and how to avoid delays and additional consultant fees.
The checklist is available online under the ‘Applying for a Planning Permit’ heading at gsc.vic.gov.au/planning. For more information about council planning services, visit gsc.vic.gov.au/planning or phone (03) 5450 9333.
