This week’s planning series looks at growth: up and out.

It’s a state government requirement that councils must provide 15 years-worth of housing growth in a shire. And with the population increasing each year, where should we accommodate that growth, how much can Phillip Island grow before it loses its appeal, is there a tipping point?

According to Bass Coast Shire’s council plan, between 2016 and 2026 the population is expected to grow from 33,311 to 46,439.

“This growth is likely to bring economic benefits and increased services, however, it may also present challenges such as a perceived loss of community and ‘small town feel’ which may have attracted many residents,” the council plan states.

It states that planners need to prepare for growth while at the same time defining town boundaries and “ensuring the intrinsic values and character of Bass Coast are retained”.

Bass Coast Shire’s planning manager Donna Taylor explained it is a state government requirement that each shire plans population growth for 15 years in advance.

“It’s state policy and what we have to do. We need to provide clear direction where that growth will be located,” Donna said.

“Wonthaggi is identified as a centre for growth and Cowes and Inverloch support that.”