Planning decisions are one of the more contentious areas of local government, particularly since the unelected VCAT planning tribunal has jurisdiction to override council decisions.

Given the contentious nature of planning it is imperative that residents are involved in the planning process so that councils can ensure a higher standard of planning decisions.

Cr Alex Makin said Maroondah was desperate for a group to focus on planning. “It would really help achieve some great outcomes to help inform the community about planning. It can often be a confusing minefield. It is important that residents do speak up”.

Community involvement in planning decisions will ultimately lead to better outcomes, by ensuring that community concerns are being taken into account. In regard to planning decisions in my ward, I often call consultation meetings to ensure that residents are able to be heard. The establishment of a community group focused on planning within Maroondah would further enhance the ability of residents to be heard over planning decisions and the character of their neighbourhoods.