A DRAFT masterplan outline the future of the Hanging Rock precinct is available for public comment.
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The state government released its draft masterplan this week and encouraged residents, community groups and visitors are invited to share their views and ideas as part of the community consultation.
Among the major points of the draft masterplan is how the Macedon Ranges icon will be protected and managed into the future.
It also hopes to find solutions for some of the area's main challenges including planning for a changing climate and ensuring increasing visitor numbers do not negatively impact Hanging Rock and the surrounding environment.
Hanging Rock has also become a popular music venue in recent years with artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Rod Stewart and The Eagles performing there.
Among the proposed changes to the precinct are the development of a new visitor centre, cafe and Traditional Owner ceremonial, along with a new car park near the existing concert area on the Straws Lane side of the area.
Existing tennis court, club rooms and cricket would be removed to make room for a proposed conservation area along the South Rock Road side of the precinct as well as a new trail network.
The Hanging Rock race course would also see upgraded facilities to enable non-racing related events to be hosted.
Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change Lily D'Ambrosio said Victoria's love for Hanging Rock was why the iconic area needed a plan for its future.
"Victorians love Hanging Rock, that's why we are planning for its future and protecting its unique natural environment so we can ensure it continues to be enjoyed by locals and visitors for generations to come," she said.
"This plan will ensure issues facing the area - included increasing numbers of visitors and the challenges of climate change are addressed."
Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, Djaara, and Taungurung Traditional Owner groups have been working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning on some solutions as well as ensuring important cultural stories are included in the precinct.
The draft masterplan comes after the state government and Macedon Ranges Shire Council worked to develop a 50-year strategic plan to protect the area. When approved, the masterplan will be implemented over the next 20 years.
"In collaboration with Traditional Owners, the master plan will ensure visitors can continue to visit Hanging Rock while managing impacts to the natural environmental and cultural assets of this iconic place into the future," Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said.
Consultation is open until February 28 with the final Hanging Rock Precinct Master Plan to be completed by June. Visit https://engage.vic.gov.au/hanging-rock-master-plan for more details.
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