Bendigo housing push clashes with habitat and flooding concerns
A 72-lot housing development in Bendigo faces local opposition over habitat loss and flood danger.
Bendigo is planning 37,000 new homes by 2051 to house more than 80,000 additional people. But a six-hectare site at Lee Street, Kangaroo Flat, has sparked strong opposition.
Twenty-four residents oppose plans for 72 lots. They say the site acts as habitat linking important natural areas.
Proposed lots would average just 455 square metres. This compares with 1,030 to 10,000 square metres nearby.
Residents fear flooding risks from nearby creeks that overflow when it rains hard. They worry that replacing existing dams with concrete, roads and roofing will worsen flooding downhill.
Council officers say the developer's drainage plans are good enough. Water authorities have approved them.
Councillors vote October 19 on whether to support the development at VCAT, the state planning tribunal.
- 37,000
- New homes planned by 2051
- more than 80,000 people
- Expected population growth
- 24
- Site residents opposed
- 72
- Proposed lots
Why it mattersHousing growth and environmental protection are clashing in regional Australia, forcing councils to choose between growth targets and local concerns.
AustraliaBendigo's expansion mirrors planning challenges across Australian cities trying to house growing populations without losing green space and managing flood risk.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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