The precinct plans for the Ringwood Town Centre were passed at this evening’s council meeting. The passing of these plans will establish a clear framework for the future development of the Ringwood Town Centre and as such will facilitate investment and employment growth within Ringwood.

The plans, which broadly cover the area bound by Ringwood Street, Warrandyte Road, Maroondah Highway and Plaza Centre Way (also known as the Bond Street extension), will attract a variety of land uses (including retail, civic commercial and residential) and will assist in creating a sense of community and pride for Ringwood.

In particular the plans will include a new Town Square for Ringwood and allow for easier pedestrian access between Ringwood Station and the retail precinct of Ringwood and improve the overall amenity and walkability of Ringwood.

Given the significance of the precinct plans, there was a widespread effort to encourage community involvement and submissions. I am encouraged by the fact that 14 submissions were received, all of which were generally supportive of the concepts identified within the precinct plans.

The relatively high volume of submissions demonstrates wider community involvement within the Ringwood Transit City project and the overall supportive tone highlights a shared vision for the future of Ringwood and the Ringwood Transit City project.

I encourage the community to continue its involvement in the Ringwood Transit City project; the success in creating a vibrant town centre will depend largely on ongoing community engagement.

Tonight’s council meeting also marked the last meeting for 2006. I look forward to further representing as we enter the new year and beyond.