Currently, Council approves about 300 new residential lots per year. This is expected to escalate to 500 or more as development in the eastern part of the Shire increases. To ensure an efficient, high quality service, Melton Shire has introduced two new initiatives. These reduce costs and time for residents, property developers and Council.
Approvals for new subdivision works are now streamlined. Clear specifications are provided for developers to tick off a checklist before submitting their plans. Council then merely needs to spot check applications to ensure conformity.
Melton is one of the first Councils in Victoria to use Quality Assurance for this type of work. The responsibility to ‘get it right the first time’ now rests with the developer, who at the same time benefits from quicker approval turnaround times.
Likewise, in the supply of information about properties, Council has developed a streamlined system for the more efficient handling of technical inquiries about properties. Here applicants no longer have to apply and pay separately for individual pieces of information.
Information is supplied on a single form which people are encouraged to keep in a safe place for future reference. Ultimately, the information will be linked to a GIS mapping system, further streamlining the supply of information about properties. The new system can be accessed via a phone call or facsimile avoiding the need for personal trips to Council offices. Applications are processed within two working days.
For further information contact Clay Drysdale, Design Services Manager, telephone (03) 9747 7200.
