City plan for future

A BIG picture vision for Boronia has been finalised after more than a year of hard work.
Residents, traders and visitors have helped Knox City Council put together the Boronia Structure Plan and Place Management Plan which was adopted last week.
The council considered input from 270 people in putting together the structure plan, required by the State Government’s metropolitan strategy Melbourne 2030.
The plan will help the council, the community and developers make planning decisions.
The five-year, $3.388 million framework will lead to better cycling and pedestrian access, parking, streetscaping and public art, the introduction of building height restrictions and provide for a cleaner, safer Boronia, says the council.
Baird Ward councillor Jim Penna said it was the first time buildings in Boronia’s centre would be limited to three or four storeys.
“By controlling building heights, council is ensuring the vistas to the Dandenong Ranges foothills are retained,” he said.
“The Boronia Structure Plan also paves the way for the attraction of new retail and commercial businesses to the area, providing a vibrant mix of complementary businesses.”
Cr Penna described the plan as “momentous”, and said the centre would look and feel revitalised within five years.
Chandler Ward councillor Monique Davey said one of the aims of the Boronia Structure Plan was to improve safety, in particular around the station and laneways.
“The revitalisation of Boronia also includes activities to provide a safe and welcoming environment and make public spaces available for use in the evenings,” she said.
“We all appreciate leisure opportunities close to home and Foothills residents will have greater opportunities to combine basic shopping with alfresco dining, movies and leisure opportunities.”