Some national parks in Victoria are to be opened up to private development under a new plan to boost the state’s tourism industry. About two-thirds of the state’s parks, including parts of Wilsons Promontory, the Otways, Point Nepean, Mt Buffalo and the high country will be freed up for private investment.
The Herald Sun reports that vast tracts of previously untouchable land will be turned over to “environmentally sensitive” development in the move aimed at giving better access to the state’s world-class outdoor attractions. Environment Minister Ryan Smith will act as gatekeeper to appropriate development. He will also have the power to grant 99-year leases to investors looking to build in the parks.
The move could reportedly see high-end apartments, backpacker accommodation and guest houses built in some of the state’s most picturesque destinations. Tourism Minister Louise Asher told the Herald Sun the change was necessary to compete with other states and overseas tourism markets such as New Zealand.
“This is about getting particularly high-value international visitors to come to our national parks and instead of coming back to a hotel in Melbourne, to actually stay there,” she said.
Strict conditions will apply to leases, with the Government to develop guidelines on an approval process and terms. No development will be allowed in “high value” areas of national parks classified as wilderness zones, reference areas, remote and natural areas and wilderness parks – about a third of the state’s national parks.
Ms Asher ruled out “1000 bed, Sofitel-size” hotels and said projects were likely to be low-rise.
“What this proposal is doing is saying to the private sector; if you would like to build an environmentally sensitive item of accommodation we will consider your proposal,” she told the Herald Sun.
Victorian National Parks Association executive director Matt Ruchel has branded the reform a “misguided and dangerous” move that exposed our parks to “irreversible damage”. Email us here to comment on this story.
