Place Plan defines key principles for future growth of Winchelsea
Published on 25 March 2026
Community aspirations and visions will guide the growth and development of Winchelsea across the next three decades, following adoption of a Winchelsea Place Plan.
Dedicated community members have shaped the plan, striving to define and preserve the essence of the town while refining a vision and principles for managing growth to 2050 and beyond.
Surf Coast Shire Council formally noted the plan at its March meeting at Modewarre.
The Place Plan will guide the development of a new Structure Plan, helping to support sustainable growth that benefits existing and future residents.
Achieving the plan’s stated goals will require combined commitments and action from community, Council, governments and the private sector.
The plan includes a vision and seven key principles, capturing what is most important to Winchelsea community:
- Managing growth and rural character
- Strong community connection
- Environmental stewardship
- Celebrating culture and heritage
- Inclusive access to services and infrastructure
- Walkable and connected town, and
- Healthy local economy and opportunity.
Volunteer members of a community working group developed the plan during a series of workshops and meetings supported by Council, and community members provided input during two consultation periods.
Deputy Mayor Tony Phelps: “Council’s Urban Futures Strategy identifies Winchelsea as a key location for long-term growth.
“This placemaking plan has been developed with great care and insight to help ensure that the town evolves in the way that community members aspire to, maintaining its rural character and many attributes.
“It is now a reference point for every step forward and will influence the creation of a Winchelsea Structure Plan, which is a more detailed ‘nuts and bolts’ plan for growth.
“We congratulate and thank all 29 Place Plan community working group members, and wider community members for having provided input during consultation periods. Their thoughtful work will be valued and appreciated by generations.”