Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy

The Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy will be a 30-year plan to manage the growth of businesses and services that provide land for employment for both local and regional needs.

Why a Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy?

Our city is a key hub for retail, community, agriculture and government services in the region. As these services are expected to grow steadily over the years, our council is committed to ensuring that this growth is well-planned and sustainable. To achieve this, we are strategically planning the provision of land needed for future commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential uses. We are preparing a Housing Affordability and Diversity Strategy alongside a Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy. This approach will help us identify and manage potential conflicts between land uses, ensuring balanced and sustainable development. The results of these strategies will form the basis for updating the Horsham Planning Scheme.  The objectives of the Industrial and Commercial Land Strategy are to provide a solid foundation for council decisions regarding future land requirements and to guide the preparation of any identified changes to the Planning Scheme to support and facilitate commercial and industrial growth. Additionally, the findings will support Council's infrastructure planning and advocacy efforts for state funding and infrastructure provision.

What is a Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy?

A Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy is a comprehensive plan developed by local government to ensure that there is an adequate and suitable supply of land available for commercial and industrial purposes now and into the future. The development of this strategy involves assessing current and future land needs, identifying and designating areas for commercial and industrial development, and implementing policies to manage land use efficiently. The goal is to support economic growth, attract investment, create jobs, and balance development with environmental, social and community considerations.

Why do we need a Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy?

A Commercial and Industrial Land Strategy is needed to proactively manage land resources, support economic development, and attract business investments. By having a well-defined strategy, we can ensure there is sufficient and appropriately zoned land to meet the needs of current and future commercial and industrial enterprises. This planning helps in creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Additionally, it allows for better infrastructure planning and development, reduces conflicts over land use, and promotes sustainable growth by balancing economic activities with environmental and social considerations.

Why should I get involved?

Community members should get involved in the development of a Commercial and Industrial Land Supply Strategy because their input and ideas will help us to ensures that the strategy reflects local needs, values, and priorities. Engaging the community allows for a more transparent and inclusive planning process, fostering trust and collaboration between residents and local government. Community members can provide valuable insights into the potential impacts of commercial and industrial development on their neighborhoods, including concerns about environmental sustainability, traffic, amenity, liveability and quality of life. Participation helps identify and mitigate potential conflicts, ensuring that the strategy promotes balanced growth that benefits the entire community. Additionally, involving residents can lead to innovative ideas and solutions that might not be considered by planners alone.

Community engagement will occur following the 2024 Council elections.