- Published:
- Friday 18 May 2018
The Andrews Labor Government is opening up land in the Latrobe Valley to support industrial and economic development in the region.
Minister for Resources Tim Pallas announced today that the Labor Government will fast-track planning control changes for three parcels of land that have been subject to coal protection overlays since the late 1980s.
The areas are part of a larger group of 30 areas with coal protection overlays currently being reviewed in the Latrobe City and Wellington municipalities that could house new businesses and developments in the Valley.
The three parcels of land have little or no usable coal resources.
The removal of coal overlays will be fast-tracked for removal on 17.8 square kilometres near Firmins Lane at Morwell South, 880 square metres west of Yinnar and the 320 square metre Gormandale Flora Reserve, pending the approval of the Minister for Planning.
The planning provisions being removed were introduced in the 1980s to safeguard potential brown coal sources, when it was envisaged the Latrobe Valley would have many more power stations and coal related industries.
This review will also examine the Latrobe and Wellington Planning Scheme content relating to coal, to ensure it is fit for purpose and reflects the Government’s Statement on Future Uses of Brown Coal.
The Victorian Budget 2018/19 is funding this strategic review to promote economic development within the Latrobe Valley.
It also provides $50 million towards the Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain trial which will utilise brown coal in support of a potential new clean energy industry with many jobs across Gippsland.
Quote attributable to Minister for Resources Tim Pallas
“We are reviewing the planning provisions for over hundreds of square kilometres of land to help ensure it is fit for purpose and supports the development of Gippsland’s economy.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“This is about modernising planning provisions in the Valley, to support the future growth and economic development of the region.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“These changes will attract new businesses and industries, and support the Valley’s continued transition to a new economy.”