New rules to protect Werribee River and Melbourne’s waterways.
Melbourne’s population is expected to surpass 8 million by 2050, prompting city officials to implement new planning protections to safeguard the city’s waterways, including the Werribee River, which plays a vital role in the Wyndham area. These measures aim to ensure the sustainability of these natural assets for both current and future residents.
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According to a Melbourne City Council spokesperson, maintaining healthy and accessible waterways is critical in fostering livable communities that benefit both people and nature. “Waterways play a crucial role in our environment and quality of life. By taking care of them, we not only improve our surroundings but also build stronger and more resilient communities for the future,” the spokesperson said.
Beyond their environmental significance, Melbourne’s waterways also serve as key recreational spaces for residents. “They are beautiful places to relax, connect with nature, and bond with others,” the spokesperson added.
New Planning Controls to Protect 17 Waterways
To ensure the ongoing protection of these natural assets, the Melbourne City Council has proposed new planning controls for 17 waterways, including:
• Werribee River
• Cherry Creek
• Deep Creek
• Darebin Creek
• Edgars Creek
• Emu Creek
• Gardiners Creek
• Jacksons Creek
• Koonung Koonung Creek
• Kororoit Creek
• Maribyrnong River
• Merri Creek
• Moonee Ponds Creek
• Plenty River
• Skelton Creek
• Steele Creek
• Stony Creek
The proposed protections will introduce planning permit requirements for various developments and land alterations near these waterways. Specifically, permits will be required for:
• New developments or significant alterations to buildings along waterways to protect waterway landscapes.
• Developments within 50 meters of a waterway bank.
• Developments exceeding six meters in height (with some exceptions).
• Developments with a floor area greater than 50 square meters near waterways.
• Ground level changes of 600mm or more near a waterway.
• Construction of non-transparent fences along waterways, with exceptions for visually permeable fences like post and wire fences.
• Removal of native vegetation.
City officials emphasize that these new controls are necessary to protect Melbourne’s waterways from increasing urbanization pressures. “We must act now to protect these vital resources and create a better environment for all,” the spokesperson stated.
The proposed planning protections aim to balance urban growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that Melbourne’s waterways—especially significant ones like the Werribee River—remain valuable and accessible resources for generations to come.
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