Whittlesea Council’s new Nature Strip Garden Guidelines will provide residents with more options when designing and maintaining nature strips.
Residents can now apply to plant edible crops in removable planter boxes, providing the opportunity to grow their own produce, as well as adding plants and shrubs up to a height of 90cm.
These changes will allow a greater variety of plants, helping to create vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods.
Whittlesea Council chair administrator Lydia Wilson encouraged residents to explore the new guidelines and learn how they can modify the nature strip adjacent to their property.
“These new guidelines reflect our community’s desire to shape the look and feel of their surroundings, while highlighting our commitment to sustainability and safety,” she said.
“In addition to the environmental and safety benefits, the guidelines will help add to the appeal of our neighbourhoods and offer opportunities for people to connect with neighbours over urban gardening. Beautifully landscaped nature strips create a sense of pride among residents and improve the overall amenity of our community.”
The guidelines outline what modifications can be made to nature strips, while prioritising the safety of road users and pedestrians by ensuring clear pathways for movement.
Residents can apply for nature strip modification via the council website.