City of Casey Councillors have decided to refer a proposed rezoning of land in Cranbourne to an independent planning panel, ensuring community feedback is carefully considered before any decisions are made.
Councillors also voted to strengthen environmental protections linked to the proposal given its proximity to former landfill sites, should development be considered in the future.
The proposal, known as Planning Scheme Amendment C300case, relates to land at 39-45 and 40-46 Cyril Beechey Lane, currently zoned for farming, which is proposed to be rezoned for potential future residential use.
Council undertook a seven week public exhibition process for the amendment from 27 November 2025, including hosting two community information sessions. During this time, Council received 17 written submissions, with most raising objections or requesting changes.
At the Council Meeting on Tuesday 17 March 2026, Councillors voted in favour of requesting that the Minister for Planning appoint an independent panel under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to consider all submissions and provide advice. All written submissions will be referred directly to the panel.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said referring the matter to an independent panel is an important step in ensuring transparency and fairness.
“We know this proposal has attracted strong community interest, and we thank residents who took the time to participate and share their concerns,” Cr Koomen said.
“We’re not taking those concerns lightly. That’s exactly why we’ve progressed this to an independent planning panel for further advice and consideration before Council forms a position.”
Councillors also resolved to strengthen the amendment’s environmental protections before development could proceed.
A comprehensive environmental audit under the Environmental Protection Act 2017 would be required to assess risks to human health and the environment associated with the nearby former Casey and Stevensons Road landfill sites, which stopped accepting waste 20 years ago. Before any works could begin, or a subdivision plan be approved, an independent environmental auditor would need to confirm the land is suitable for sensitive uses (including housing) and that any recommendations of the audit have been implemented and verified to Council’s satisfaction.
Council also introduced a requirement for a minimum 30 per cent tree canopy cover within public spaces and open areas, helping support cooling, liveability and environmental outcomes if development were ever to occur.
The independent panel will review all submissions and prepare a report with recommendations. Following the panel process, the amendment will return to a future Council meeting for consideration and decision.
Residents can view the Council Report and minutes from the March meeting on our website.
More detailed information, including FAQs about the amendment and the planning process, is available on Casey Conversations.