THE City of Greater Bendigo will today launch its economic development strategy, with a view to improving the city's educational, employment and environmental outcomes within 10 years.
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Development of the document started in 2018, with input from the youth council and a number of leading central Victorian businesses, groups and organisations.
Councillors at last night's meeting said the need for the strategy was stronger than ever before, given the COVID-19 pandemic.
They said the strategy provided opportunities for the city, some of which were highlighted in other items on the council agenda.
More news: Bendigo council meeting | August live blog
The council last night endorsed plans to build on its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
One of the champions of Bendigo's successful bid, councillor Jennifer Alden, said the benefits would extend beyond the city's tourism and visitor economy. The plans also focused on the wellbeing of the region's residents.
"Gastronomy has never been more important as a means of recovery," Cr Alden said.
The council endorsed the release of a draft affordable housing action plan - another strategy the city had been working towards well before the pandemic, which it knew would be all the more important subsequently.
Councillors stressed the importance of housing in improving a range of outcomes for the city and its residents, and highlighted the need for the local government to define its role in acting.
Housing was one element councillors discussed with respect to the future of Golden Square.
They last night gave the green light for a body of work to go public, further inviting discussion about strategic planning for the suburb.
A development contributions plan for Huntly also progressed a step further, as did the journey towards recognition of some of the city's heritage assets.
Councillors decided against releasing a draft community buildings policy, opting to further consult with the community and address shortcomings in the proposed document.
They approved a single-use plastics elimination policy, which will see more sustainable alternatives used at events wherever possible.
The council recommitted the city as guarantor for Bendigo Stadium Limited, which sought to refinance its loan up to $13 million given the effects of COVID-19.
Emma D'Agostino
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
