What is a Structure Plan?

    What is a Structure Plan?

    A Structure Plan sets out a roadmap for the future and assists decision making by Council. It considers the current situation, issues and opportunities and then develops ideas to influence the future changes. Structure Plans generally include a series of policies, strategies and actions that consider the following issues:

    • The vision for the town
    • Town centre and public spaces
    • Shops, business and employment
    • Housing types and location
    • Community infrastructure
    • Open space
    • Drainage, water and sewerage
    • Roads and connections
    • Public transport and cycling
    • The environment

    Why does Broadford need a Structure Plan?


    Broadford is identified within the Hume Regional Growth Plan and Plan Melbourne as a peri-urban town capable of growth and change.

    The Structure Plan helps identify what type of changes are required to strategically position Broadford in the region over the next 20 years and builds on Broadford’s existing strengths and address challenges to facilitate positive change. The Plan manages the future development of the town, meeting the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.

    Will Broadford retain its country feel, if the town grows as shown in the draft Structure Plan over the next twenty years?

    The areas earmarked for residential growth allow for a combination of standard residential and larger lots that allow for living within a rural character setting. Broadford’s role and character as a regional town will not change as a result of the future growth as the population will remain low in comparison to typical suburban areas.

    What are the key areas of change?

    The summary brochure contains the four key directions for change for housing, movement networks, community infrastructure and employment. Refer to the full Structure Plan for an outline of all aspects of nominated change.

    Where can I get more information?

    You can download a copy of the draft Structure Plan at www.engagingmitchellshire.com or call +61 3 5734 6400 to speak to Strategic Planning staff at Council.

    How do I make a submission?

    You can lodge a submission or fill in the survey form on the Engaging Mitchell website: www.engagingmitchellshire.com

    Submissions can also be provided via email to mitchell@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au

    Or post it to:

    Mitchell Shire Council
    Strategic Planning Department
    Broadford Structure Plan
    113 High Street
     Broadford, VIC 3658

    When will the Structure Plan be approved?

    I is hoped that the Structure Plan will be finalised and approved by Council by mid 2021.

    How will the Structure Plan be implemented?


    The Structure Plan contains a series of recommendations and actions that will be implemented over the short, medium and long term.

    Will the proposed residential developments have impacts on significant farming / agricultural land?

    Mitchell Shire Council is currently undertaking the Rural Land and Activities Review (RLAR) project. This project is providing in depth assessment of all the land within the municipality and is identifying / classing the agricultural land capability.  

    Based on the current findings in the RLAR background document, the land surrounding Broadford is, within the Agricultural Land Capability Class of 4 (poor) or 5 (very poor). It is therefore suggested that the Land surrounding Broadford is not receiving any special treatment from the RLAR. 

    Based on these findings in the RLAR the land proposed for residential expansion is not highly productive agricultural land and will not have an impact on our farming / agriculture within the municipality.