Council apply for a planning permit to clean up section of Lake Colac

Published on 01 February 2018

Colac Otway Shire Council will apply for a planning permit to clean up the foreshore area to the west of the boat ramp at Lake Colac.

Mayor Joe McCracken said proposed maintenance work was a response to community feedback regarding the value people placed on the lake foreshore.

“Clean-up of the lake foreshore has strong support from the community, as it remains a centre for activity, relaxation and recreation.

“Maintenance work in the area beside the boat ramp is much needed and will encourage locals and visitors to use the lake for water sports, ski boats, jet skis and fishing,” Cr McCracken said.

The planning permit is required for work to be undertaken under the Environmental Significance Overlay schedule 2 (ESO2) which seeks to protect the environmental significance of lakes, wetlands and watercourses from inappropriate development.

Proposed work would remove current native vegetation on the Lake Colac foreshore area.

“Whilst Council proposes to remove the current native vegetation, we’re aiming to improve access and usability of the lake,” Cr McCracken said

“Going through the planning permit application process ensures other sections of the lakes edge will retain vegetation to protect the habitat, minimise erosion and reduce polluted surface run-off from adjacent land users.”

Environmental objectives of the ESO2 include protecting the significant flora, fauna and fisheries habitat of Lake Colac.

“Council intends to enhance the use and aesthetic appeal of Lake Colac by undertaking maintenance work, but we’re mindful of any environmental impacts to birdlife, fish and native vegetation – all factors which are important to the overall appeal of the lake as a community resource and destination,” he said.

There is a 28 day referral period of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to respond. Public notice of the planning application must be given.