Harper Sercombe
Whittlesea council has adopted a plan to accelerate investment in the Epping Central development.
The Epping Central Structure Plan provides a framework to guide new development and future improvements to services, infrastructure and facilities.
The state government labelled the precinct as a key location for health, education, commerce, housing and transport investment.
The new plan, which updates the previous Epping Central structure plan adopted in 2011, is designed to align with council’s vision of ‘Whittlesea, A Place for All’.
Administrator Christian Zahra said the plan will help Epping’s continued evolution into the “economic heart” of Melbourne’s north.
“Epping central is critically important to the City of Whittlesea’s economy and this plan provides a clear blueprint for promoting growth in a considered and sustainable way,” he said.
“We want Epping Central to be an attractive destination not just for investors but families, too.”
The plan was developed after a six-week public consultation process conducted in late 2022 that yielded 264 contributions.
The idea is based around the core themes of urban living, transport, employment and investment, community facilities and services, design and natural environment.
It provides an increased diversity in all housing types, including affordable housing, to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population.
It also promotes reducing Epping’s reliance on cars by prioritising sustainable modes of transport such as walking, cycling and public transport.
To stimulate jobs growth, the plan supports the diversification of business opportunities and encourages further investment.
The plan also places an emphasis on the provision of high quality and easily accessible health, education, cultural and recreational services.
Details- www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/eppingcentral
