Council Endorses Outline Development Plan for Lakes Edge
Published on 16 July 2026
Southern Grampians Shire Council has endorsed the Outline Development Plan (ODP) for the Lakes Edge development, marking an important milestone for the future growth of Hamilton.
The endorsed ODP provides the strategic framework for the staged development of the Lakes Edge land, with plans for approximately 280 to 340 new residential lots, a childcare centre, convenience store, public open space, upgraded road infrastructure and new walking and cycling connections.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the decision followed community consultation and technical assessments.
"This is an important step forward in the planning for Hamilton's future while ensuring the development is supported by appropriate infrastructure and careful planning," Cr Heslin said.
"We thank everyone who took the time to provide feedback during the public exhibition period. The community raised valuable issues around traffic, drainage, lot sizes, open space and infrastructure, and these have been carefully considered throughout the assessment process.
“The major change to the ODP following consultation confirms the average lot size will be 525sqm, and moving the intersection upgrade proposed for Ballarat and Rippon Roads from stage 3 to stage 2 of the development.
“Other changes include incorporating bike path connections, drainage infrastructure, and the recognition of the Cultural Heritage Management Plan.”
The ODP was publicly exhibited for 28 days, generating two petitions, three written submissions, 50 online submissions and a resident deputation to Council. Common themes included the timing of the Ballarat Road and Rippon Road intersection upgrade, traffic management, stormwater drainage, housing density, lot sizes, public open space and the proposed childcare centre.
Council's assessment found the ODP is consistent with the requirements of the Section 173 Agreement and supported by detailed technical investigations, including traffic, drainage, environmental and infrastructure planning.
The development is expected to occur over four stages, with the southern section of the site proposed as the first stage of construction.
While the ODP establishes the overall vision for the development, each stage of subdivision will still require separate planning approval under the Southern Grampians Planning Scheme.
Future planning permit applications will be subject to further technical assessment and, where required, public notification. Detailed matters including traffic management, stormwater design, landscaping, environmental outcomes and infrastructure delivery will continue to be assessed as part of those planning processes.
“We had a number of residents present well considered deputations on the project on Tuesday evening and we thank them for their time. We will continue to work with residents as planning permits for each of the stages are lodged.
"The development will continue to undergo rigorous planning assessment to ensure community expectations, planning requirements and infrastructure standards are met as the development progresses.
“Our housing market and renting availability has long been under pressure, preventing recruitment of key workers across all industries including health care, education, key services for a number of years. This development will help alleviate that pressure and help the Southern Grampians – in particular, Hamilton – grow,” concluded Cr Heslin.
The Lakes Edge development is expected to deliver a diverse range of housing opportunities while supporting Hamilton's long-term population growth and providing new community infrastructure for current and future residents.
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