Council welcomes support for Cohuna housing project

Council welcomes support for Cohuna housing project

Gannawarra Shire Council has welcomed the Victorian Government's announcement that a proposed residential development in Cohuna will be assessed through the Unlocking Strategic Sites program, helping to accelerate the delivery of much-needed housing in the region.

The Cohuna site was identified as one of 12 projects across Victoria that will be fast-tracked through the program, which aims to unlock underutilised land for new housing and reduce planning timeframes.

The proposed housing development, which is currently in the planning phase, represents an important opportunity to increase housing supply in Cohuna, providing greater choice for residents, workers and families seeking to live in the township.

"Council welcomes the Victorian Government's recognition of the importance of this project and the role it can play in addressing housing demand in Cohuna and across the Gannawarra Shire," Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

"Local employers consistently identify housing availability as a barrier to attracting and retaining workers. Projects such as this help create the housing options needed to support local industry, businesses and essential services."

The Victorian Government's decision to include Cohuna as one of the 12 projects aligns with Council's broader efforts to advocate for additional housing opportunities throughout the municipality.

"Increasing housing supply is a key priority for Council. We have been actively advocating for initiatives that encourage residential development and provide greater certainty for investment in our communities," Mr Rollinson said.

"While there are still important planning and community consultation stages ahead, this announcement is a positive step that signals confidence in Cohuna's future and its capacity to accommodate sustainable growth."

The Victorian Government has indicated that all projects considered through the Unlocking Strategic Sites program will be subject to planning assessment and community consultation, while also requiring a minimum of 10 per cent affordable housing.

Media Releases