Planning pathway and timeline

The project requires a planning permit which has been assessed via the Department of Transport and Planning’s (DTP) Development Facilitation Program (DFP). The DFP facilitates projects with demonstrated economic value for Victoria. A permit is required for earthworks under the zone, to carry out works, and remove native vegetation under the planning overlays.

Meadow Creek Solar Farm has engaged specialist consultants to prepare detailed assessments, background reports, and concept plans for the proposed solar farm and BESS. This ensures the proposal meets best practice standards, and government regulation requirements, so that it minimises impacts to the environment and surrounding amenity, is safe, and benefits the wider community.

The Planning Application will address the requirements under Clause 53.13 Renewable Energy Facility of the Wangaratta Planning Scheme, including assessments on:

• Site and context analysis

• Visual amenity

• Agriculture and land use

• Traffic and transport

• Hydrology

• Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

• Ecology and native vegetation impacts

• Noise and vibration

• Environmental Management Plan

• Fire risk and safety.

These assessments and associated reports are reviewed by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) on behalf of the Minister for Planning.

The proposal has also been referred to the Commonwealth Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act) and designated as a controlled action.

As part of the assessment of the controlled action under the Bilateral Agreement between the State of Victoria and the Commonwealth for the EPBC Act, additional information specific to the matters raised has been provided to DTP and the Commonwealth Government. This additional documentation will undergo a public exhibition process.

The planning permit will be considered by the Victorian Minister for Planning.

Managing impacts

The planning and environmental approvals process ensures that any potential impacts are identified and understood, mitigated, avoided, or managed to minimise impacts on the local community and environment.

The proposal is supported by a suite of materials prepared by experts – including urban planners, agricultural experts, environmental scientists, architects, and traffic, waste, and hydraulic engineers – to the satisfaction of both the Victorian and Federal Government.

The site will include new trees and vegetation to create green corridors for wildlife preservation and protection, while minimising any visual impacts on neighbouring properties.

Flood, noise, and bushfire protection measures will be implemented to ensure the highest safety standards.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA), as a referral authority, has reviewed the proposal and confirmed that it meets all necessary fire safety requirements.