The Local Government Ministerial Forum continued today with an opening keynote address from the Premier, John Brumby.  The Premier discussed State Government policies relevant to Local Government, including the planning system and  Central Activities Districts.

The State Government, in conjunction with local councils, designated several urban centres as Central Activities Districts, including Ringwood, Box Hill, Dandenong and Frankston within the eastern region of Melbourne.

The policy aims to encourage mixed-use centres, with a range of residential, commercial and community facilities.  These urban centres need a whole of Government approach to achieve these objectives, particularly in regard to infrastructure investment.

For example, many of these centres, including Ringwood, require public transport improvements to encourage sustainable forms of transport and to support the development of these urban centres.

Furthermore, there is a need to ensure that community facilities are provided within these centres to ensure vibrant and active communities.  The City of Maroondah, supports Ringwood’s status as  a Central Activities District, but there is a need for a coordinated approach to ensure a vibrant and sustainable urban centre.

The Local Government Ministerial Forum provided an opportunity to enter into direct dialogue with the State Government.  It is hoped that the City of Maroondah will have the opportunity for further discussions with Ministers and the Government to achieve positive outcomes for the community.