On Tuesday night Coucil approved a Housing Strategy and Action Plan for consultation that will effectively encourage higher density housing development in Monbullk, Belgrave, Montrose, Tecoma, Upwey and Warburton. This goes against broad and deeply held community wishes and sets Upper Yarra and Dandenong Ranges region on a path distinctly different to where we have been heading for the last 25 years. “Council has been very brave in putting this new strategy out for two months of consulation with this recommendation for medium or higher density developments in it” said Jo Tenner, President of Upper Yarra & Dandenongs Environment Council. “ The state government’s long term strategy is very clear on this, higher density housing is to be located in Lilydale and Chirnside Park only, not the other locations included in Council housing strategy.” We encourage council to heed the communities views on this matter and restrict medium and higher density housing to Lilydale and Chirnside park.