THE Minister for Planning has approved Mansfield Shire Council's amendment to the Mansfield Planning Scheme to preserve the scenic value of the alpine approaches and ensure that future development positively impacts the environment and amenity of the township.

Major roads in and out of Mansfield are defined as alpine approaches and include: Maroondah Highway, Mount Buller Road, Mansfield–Woods Point Road (Jamieson Road) and Mansfield–Whitfield Road (Tolmie Road).

The amendment provides guidelines for the design of new buildings and how they should fit in with the surrounding area to preserve the character of Mansfield township.

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said clarity in the definition and protection of the alpine approaches, clear guidelines, and reinforcement of the valued character of the Mansfield township are all hallmarks of Mansfield Shire Council's latest Planning Scheme amendment.

"Designing new buildings to fit in with the surrounding area, that's what the amendment to Mansfield Township's local policy intends to achieve," he said.

"It will preserve the landscapes and character that we love, and enhance its beauty."

The amendment implements the residential components of the Township Approaches Planning Controls and Guidelines Study from June 2018 and includes the introduction of Clause 15.01–5L Mansfield Township Approaches, a new Schedule 2 (Alpine Approaches and Township Gateways, Residential Zones) to the Design and Development Overlay, and application of the Design and Development Overlay 2 to designated areas of Mixed Use, General Residential 1, Low Density Residential, and Rural Living Zone.