Council's director of infrastructure and planning James Magee said council had requested an amendment to planning scheme maps and ordinance for rezoning of land generally known as the Hopetoun Industrial Estate on Hopetoun West Road.

Mr Magee said the amendment was required because the existing farm zoning did not allow use of the site for industrial development.

"Iluka received ministerial approval for the establishment of a warehouse and loading facility at Hopetoun in November, 2010,'' he said.

''Council has been approached by a number of other potential developers wishing to establish services that will complement the Iluka proposal.

"But the current zoning of the land does not allow council to issue planning permits, if it desires, because industry in the zone is a prohibited use."

Mr Magee said a zoning change would benefit the community.

"The amendment would allow industrial activities to be established resulting in employment opportunities, both short term through construction of facilities as well as long term employment from the operations of those industries," he said.

At Wednesday morning's council meeting Cr Andrew McLean asked if residents were notified of the intended zoning change.

Mr Magee said residents were notified and no objections were received by council.

"Council requested comments from landowners in relation to changing the zone to industrial before commencing a planning scheme amendment," he said.

"The amendment would only apply to land that is currently being used for an industrial activity.

"It will not allow for vacant land outside the defined area to be rezoned at this stage."

He said he hoped Mr Guy would make a decision quickly because council had already discussed the issue with his office.