Public exhibition has opened for Planning Scheme Amendment C237gben relating to the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant in Epsom.
The Amendment proposes to rezone land at the site and apply the Buffer Area Overlay to land surrounding the site.
The Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant has a range of facilities that receive and treat sewage generated from approximately 47,000 residential, commercial, and industrial buildings across the region.
Its wastewater catchment includes central Bendigo and the surrounding areas of Kangaroo Flat, Strathfieldsaye, Epsom, Huntly, and Marong.
The treatment plant is close to homes and businesses as well as farming and conservation land.
The Amendment has been prepared by the City of Greater Bendigo as the planning authority for this project and was requested by Coliban Water. The purpose of the Amendment is to manage potential land use conflicts by guiding future sensitive development near the site, while protecting the plant’s ongoing operations.
Acting Manager Strategic Planning Bridget Maplestone said treating wastewater for homes and businesses across Greater Bendigo was an essential service.
“Careful planning is needed that balances residential growth in the area and the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant’s future operations,” Ms Maplestone said.
“The Amendment has been informed by a 12-month long technical study commissioned by Coliban Water, which assessed wind patterns, weather conditions, and historical odour complaints.
“The proposed Buffer Area Overlay introduces planning controls for nearby land to help protect the long-term operation of the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant. It guides land use and development in areas that may occasionally experience odour, depending on plant operating and weather conditions.”
The Amendment proposes to:
Rezone the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant from Farming Zone (FZ) and Low-Density Residential Zone (LDRZ) to Public Use Zone (PUZ1)
Apply the Buffer Area Overlay (BAO) to land within an odour buffer area of the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant site
Introduce two schedules (Schedule 3 and 4) to the Buffer Area Overlay and nominate Coliban Water as a determining referral authority for planning applications in this Overlay
Two information drop-in sessions are taking place where people are invited to talk to City staff about the Amendment including the Buffer Area Overlay and how it may affect their property.
The information sessions are on:
Friday September 11 from 2.30pm to 6.30pm at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve
Thursday September 17 from 2.30pm to 6.30pm at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve
Letters have been sent to all property owners and occupiers affected by the Amendment to explain the proposed changes and what it could mean for their property.
If you are unable to attend the information session, please email [email protected] during the exhibition period to arrange an appointment.
Submissions must be in writing and received by close of business on Monday October 5, 2026. To view the amendment, visit: