High density plan unveiled

By Bridget Cook
THE City of Casey has unveiled a set of plans that outline the council’s vision for Cranbourne’s town centre in the next 20 years.
At last week’s council meeting, councillors approved three draft documents to be put out for public consultation from next week, until 24 April.
High density housing is a major part of the plans, with multi-level apartments envisioned for High street and near the Cranbourne and Cranbourne East Railway stations.
The plans picture a thriving café lifestyle along High Street, with increases to footpath widths and an improved streetscape.
The council also wants to create a new destination – The Avenue – along High Street, described as “a lively and intimate mixed-use street”.
The council outlines in the plan the need for the Cranbourne bypass, something neither of the major political parties has committed to.
The council states in the plan that it will also push for a new hospital to service the local community.
The plan states that the Cranbourne Town Centre has grown from a small, quiet shopping street to a regional business and shopping centre within one of the fastest-growing areas in Australia.
“This rapid growth warrants careful planning and development,” it states.
“Specifically, the Cranbourne Town Centre requires transport and infrastructure improvements, built form guidelines, landscape enhancements and land use intensifications to allow it to reach its potential as a welcoming and lively principal activity centre.”
One of the documents outlines the details for the future of the Casey complex – “ a place that engenders an exciting and vibrant community through intense and diverse land use.”
The council hopes that land, which already consists of Casey RACE, the sports centre and library, will also include a range of civic, recreational and cultural hubs.
Copies of the plans can be downloaded from casey.vic.gov.au or picked up from Casey Council’s customer service centres from Monday.