FEARS have been raised Wodonga ratepayers will be left to “pick up the tab” for costs in new housing estates which would have otherwise been covered by a levy.
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Councillor Ron Mildren suspects developer fees set down in a precinct structure plan for Leneva-Baranduda will be deficient.
“I understand that some time ago that council requested officers and now the Victorian Planning Authority to review the contribution dollar amounts with a view to a reduction of the contribution amount,” Cr Mildren said.
“I’m concerned with who will be required to pick up the tab for those infrastructure items when the future community demands that they be provided.
“I am concerned that the ratepayers will be called upon to make up the difference and that this will put more pressure on council to borrow more.”
Cr Mildren also felt the plan was “cookie cutter” with a lack of attention to “affordable” housing and “higher-end market segments”.
The qualified planner’s views came as the council opted to seek authorisation from the Victorian Planning Minister to prepare an amendment to the city’s planning scheme to include the precinct blueprint.
The precinct covers more than 1000 hectares between Beechworth Road and the Kiewa Valley Highway.
It covers areas designated for homes, schools, parks and shops.
Mayor Anna Speedie said the city needed state help.
“This is the largest greenfield precinct structure plan in Victoria and it involves some complex planning which is why we have engaged the services of the state’s peaking planning body the Victorian Planning Agency,” Cr Speedie said.
“They are the experts in this field and we have been guided by their recommendations in taking these steps.”
The development infrastructure levy proposed as part of the plan is $14,319 per lot based on 15 dwellings per developable hectare, $17,898 on a 12-dwelling basis and $21,478 for 10.
It would cover some roadworks and drainage needs.
