Planning permit application for wellness spa and retreat, including accomodation in Halls Gap
Tourism developments in regional Victoria require a planning approach that balances visitor accommodation with the protection of the surrounding landscape and environmental values. For this project, we had the exciting opportunity to provide town planning and design services on behalf of our client for a planning permit application to Northern Grampians Shire Council for the use and development of a camping and caravan park, incorporating group accommodation, an ancillary wellness spa, a yoga retreat, and associated buildings and works.
Our involvement began with a preliminary town planning assessment to determine the site’s development potential and identify the planning considerations that would shape the proposal. Given the scale and diversity of the development, establishing a clear masterplan and strategy atthe outset was essential to ensure the various land uses worked together as an integrated tourism destination.
Working collaboratively with our design team, we developed a site layout that carefully positioned the accommodation, communal facilities and wellness spaces to make the most of the natural landscape while providing a functional and enjoyable experience for future guests. The proposal was designed to encourage low-impact tourism, creating spaces for relaxation, recreation and wellbeing while respecting the character of the surrounding rural environment.
Our team prepared the architectural drawings, planning report and supporting documentation before managing the planning permit application through Council’s assessment process. The planning submission demonstrated how the development aligned with the strategic objectives of the planning scheme by supporting regional tourism, creating new accommodation opportunities and encouraging sustainable economic growth within the municipality.
The planning permit was successfully issued by Northern Grampians Shire Council, allowing our client to progress an exciting tourism development. This project highlights how integrating town planning with thoughtful building design can help unlock unique tourism opportunities while delivering developments that respond to both the landscape and the expectations of Council.
