City of Wodonga

## City of Wodonga Planning Department Analysis **Wodonga operates as a notably developer-friendly council** with clear growth ambitions, targeting a substantial 76% housing increase (15,200 new dwellings) by 2051. The department actively **encourages both housing growth and subdivision development**, particularly in designated growth corridors like Leneva, Baranduda, and West Wodonga. **Processing times are generally reasonable** for a regional council, though pre-application meetings are highly recommended given their strategic focus on directing growth to appropriate areas. The department tends to be **pragmatic rather than obstructionist** when applications align with their growth strategy. **Common delays typically involve infrastructure capacity assessments** and referrals to relevant authorities, particularly for larger subdivisions in growth areas. The council's concern about infrastructure funding alongside rapid growth can create bottlenecks during technical assessments. **The planning department demonstrates a proactive approach** to managing growth, with their 10-year Growth Strategy Review indicating strategic thinking rather than reactive planning. They maintain **strict protection of hillsides and heritage precincts** while being flexible in designated growth zones. **Applications in CBD intensification, Leneva, Baranduda, and West Wodonga typically receive favorable consideration**, while hillside and rural proposals face significant resistance. Their partnership with Albury in the "Two Cities One Community" initiative suggests coordinated regional planning priorities.