A significant housing development has received approval in Riddells Creek, part of the Macedon Ranges, aimed at addressing the growing demand for residential properties. The Amess Road Precinct Structure Plan, sanctioned by Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny, will facilitate the construction of 1,360 new homes in the area, providing accommodation for approximately 3,800 residents.
The new estate will encompass more than 131 hectares of land, offering vital open spaces exceeding seven hectares. According to Ms. Kilkenny, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand housing availability in regions where many residents have faced difficulties in securing affordable options. She emphasized, “Victorians should have the same opportunities their parents had – that’s why we’ve introduced bold reforms to boost housing supply in areas where Victorians have been locked out for far too long.”
Community Benefits and Infrastructure Improvements
Beyond residential units, the plan includes the establishment of a new community centre and enhancements to the Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve. Notably, 10% of the homes will be allocated for affordable housing, addressing critical needs within the community.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Macedon Ranges is the best place to live, which is why we’re unlocking more land to build more homes, so that people that grew up in the region can continue to raise their families here.”
The development process involved extensive community engagement, with two rounds of consultations generating over 1,300 submissions. Feedback highlighted priorities such as improved connectivity, additional residential land to accommodate population growth, and upgraded open spaces, including shared user paths.
Infrastructure upgrades will also accompany the housing project. A new roundabout is set to be constructed at the intersection of Kilmore Road and Gyro Close, along with improvements at the intersection of Kilmore and Amess Roads. These enhancements aim to facilitate better traffic flow and accessibility for both current and future residents of Riddells Creek.
The Amess Road Precinct Structure Plan represents a significant step toward meeting the housing demands of the Macedon Ranges, fostering growth while ensuring that the area remains a desirable location for families and individuals seeking a vibrant community setting.
