A HUNTLY resident who owns land within a proposed new infrastructure development zone says council did not consult landowners on changes that could leave them out of pocket.
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The resident, who chose not to be named, said they only received notice about the development in a letter that arrived in the post on Thursday.
"I think it's wrong," the resident said. "It seems like council have pushed it under the carpet for a little while."
The City of Greater Bendigo noted in its council agenda that it will consider a recommendation to introduce a Huntly Development Contributions Plan Overlay to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme at next week's council meeting.
The proposed plan would apply to the growth area north of the Huntly town centre on the eastern side of the Midland Highway.
At least 30 properties will be affected across 247 hectares of land.
If developers or land owners within the area were to develop their land, they would each need to contribute funds to the DCP based on the amount of land they own.
The levies will only be triggered when land is subdivided.
The Huntly resident said while they had no plans to subdivide their property, the council should have been more transparent about the changes.
"You pay your rates and everything for your house," they said. "That should be included in it."
A report to council showed the Huntly growth area was expected to provide for 6000 people and would require more than $23.8 million in infrastructure.
The Huntly DCP was expected to provide more than seven kilometres of cycling and pedestrian links, new roads, district play space and improved intersections.
Although Viewpoint Estate falls within the proposed DCP area, the city said residents would not be affected because the developer had already made a contribution to council.
There are six private properties outside of the DCP area that would be affected by the design of an upgraded intersection.
The City said they would be in discussions with the landowners regarding future land purchase by agreement.
Two Crown land properties - one of which is reserved to Coliban Water - would also be affected by the changes.
If council supports the recommendation at this month's council meeting, the City will request the Minister for Planning to commence the process to amend the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
The DCP amendment would then be placed on exhibition for public consultation.
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Tara Cosoleto
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
