Community members are invited to provide feedback on Surf Coast Shire Council’s new policy and guidelines to guide use and maintenance of residential nature strips.
People can view the Draft Nature Strip Policy and Guidelines and have their say from 22 August to 29 September by completing a survey at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/naturestrip.
Nature strips are public land, owned and controlled by the Council and part of the road reserve.
The policy and guidelines aim to provide clear direction for property owners and residents about permitted uses, including approved surface treatments, plant heights, growing of edible plants, installations and maintenance responsibilities.
The policy is based on five principles. That nature strips:
· Provide a public space which contributes to sense of place and community.
· Should be safe and accessible spaces.
· Contribute to healthy environment for people, plants and animals.
· Can play an active role in supporting Council’s Climate Change response.
· Play a role for location of essential services.
“Complex issues can arise from use of a nature strip and we know that community members have been seeking more clarity on a range of issues,” Cr Gary Allen said.
“The draft policy and guidelines aim to provide more certainty across a broad range of topics and we look forward to hearing responses from our community while they are out for public review.”
The guidelines recognise that nature strip terrain can vary greatly in some Surf Coast communities, influencing use.
Under the policy it is proposed that:
· Hard surfaces such as gravel or mulch are no longer permitted as they lead to more stormwater run-off and lead to materials being washed into downstream water bodies like wetlands, rivers and the ocean.
· Well-kept grass and modest plantings are preferred due to their environmental benefits, their ability to reduce radiated heat and to soften streetscapes.
· Residents wishing to undertake works varying from the nature strip guidelines will need to seek a permit so Council officers can individually assess the proposed works against the guidelines and broader Council objectives.
· Property owners or occupiers are required to maintain nature strip grass and any plants excluding street trees, which are solely Council’s responsibility.
People seeking more information can call Council on 5261 0600 or lodge a request via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/request.
