Status: In progress
On this page:
The project
We want your help to develop a Heathcote Urban Design Framework.
Heathcote has a growing population. The town centre needs to be well-designed, vibrant, safe, and attractive. The Urban Design Framework will guide how the town centre develops to meet future needs.
Our goal is to create a plan that reflects your vision.
We will build on the feedback you have already given us through the Heathcote Township Plan and the engagement that was open in August and September 2024.
How to have your say
From August 19 to September 16, we asked you to drop a pin on the map or fill out the survey. There were also opportunities to chat to us in person. We heard what would be nice to have in Heathcote's town centre, and what you thought was missing.
We are now analysing your feedback and developing the draft Urban Design Framework. You will have another chance to give feedback on the draft. Please follow the project for updates.
Examples of things that could be included in an Urban Design Framework:
- Parks, green spaces, street trees and landscaping
- Footpaths and pedestrian access
- Cycle lanes and bike parking
- Seating areas
- Public toilets
- How buildings look
- Community centres
- Public art and cultural features
- Street lighting
- Signage and wayfinding
Frequently Asked Questions
An Urban Design Framework is a set of guidelines that help us create well-designed urban environments.
It considers elements like:
- how tall buildings should be
- where green areas should be
- how streets should be designed to make it easy for people to move around
The goal is to create attractive, functional, and liveable places for people to live, work, and enjoy.
A structure plan provides the overarching strategies for the entire city or region or precinct. Urban Design Frameworks are implemented within specific zones outlined in the structure plan. The UDF's design guidelines and recommendations must align with the structure plan.
For example, the structure plan designates an area for commercial development. The UDF for that area would provide guidance on how to design the buildings and public spaces in that zone.
The Urban Design Framework is being developed to addresses the current and future needs of the community.
It aims to:
- enhance the liveability, functionality, and aesthetics of the Heathcote town centre
- accommodate growth
- preserve the area’s unique character
Preparing an Urban Design Framework for Heathcote was one of the key recommendations of the Commercial Land and Activity Centre Strategy (CLACS) (2015). The Heathcote Township Plan also recommends upgrades to the High Street to improve public safety and amenities.
The key focus areas may include:
- improving public spaces
- enhancing transport and accessibility
- promoting sustainable development
- preserving heritage and cultural sites
- supporting local businesses
We will adjust these based on your feedback.
The Urban Design Framework aims to support the local economy by creating an attractive, functional town centre.
It will include recommendations for:
- commercial development
- tourism opportunities
- initiatives to boost Heathcote's economy
The Strategic Planning team at the City of Greater Bendigo is developing the Framework.
We will do this with input from stakeholders including:
- residents
- businesses
- state government agencies
Implementing the Framework will be a collaboration. Many departments and partners will be involved. At this stage, there is no funding allocated to implementation.
Timeline
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Timeline item 1 - complete
Community Engagement
August 19 - September 16, 2024
-
Timeline item 2 - active
Development of draft Urban Design Framework
October to December 2024
-
Timeline item 3 - incomplete
Draft Urban Design Framework opens for community feedback
Early 2025
-
Timeline item 4 - incomplete
Final Urban Design Framework submitted to Council for adoption
Early 2025
-
Timeline item 5 - incomplete
Urban Design Framework incorporated into the planning scheme
Mid 2025
Links
Contact us
Have questions or want to learn more about a project, contact us below:
| Name | Kavana Ramachandra |
|---|---|
| Phone | 1300 002 642 |
| strategic.planning@bendigo.vic.gov.au |
