AUGUST 28, 2018 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE
Caravan plan dumped By Sumeyya Ilanbey Plans for a camping and caravan park in Diggers Rest have been shut down following serious concerns about the site becoming a “stealthy” residential development and “irreversible” impacts on nearby properties. Dean Slaviero lodged a planning application earlier this year with Melton council to build a camping and caravan park on an 18-hectare site at 1376 Calder Highway, Diggers Rest. Mr Slaviero proposed building 85 camping sites, an office, 30 visitor carparking spaces and recreational facilities. He also wanted to remove indigenous wallaby grass scattered throughout the site and tree violet shrubs. But Melton councillors last week refused to issue him a planning permit in line with the officer recommendation and 140 objections the council received to the application. Diggers Rest residents had raised a number of concerns about the application, including fears the site would attract permanent residents, devalue nearby properties and impact on the rebuilding of the heritage-listed Diggers Rest Hotel on an adjoining site. In their report, council officers said a camping and caravan park was not in line with the objectives of the green wedge zone in which the site is located. “A camping and caravan park should be located further from an urban growth boundary to maintain the distinct character of Diggers Rest township, the integrity of the urban growth boundary and the landscape values of the green wedge urban interface,” the council report stated. Melbourne Airport, one of the objectors to the application, raised concerns about the location being affected by increased aircraft noise. It also said it was “not satisfied” with the acoustic work undertaken by the applicant. The council report stated: “Of major concern to objectors is the potential for the subject site being used for residential purposes, raising the potential for residential development by stealth. “Given that there is no ability to limit the length of time that camping and caravan park sites can be occupied, there is always the potential for them to become sites for low-cost, long-term accommodation.” Mr Slaviero told Star Weekly he was talking with his lawyers and “considering all options”. “I’ve put a years’ worth of effort in this,” Mr Slaviero said. “I’m trying to do something positive for the Diggers Rest community to attract tourism … the Diggers Rest hotel will offer luxury accommodation and I was hoping to offer mid-budget accommodation.”
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Souped up skills week Fresh and seasonal produce will be all the rage at this soup-making workshop. As part of Adult Learners Week (September 1-8), Melton council will host a range of events to teach residents “invaluable skills”. One of the events will be a soup and casserole making workshop at Djerriwarrh Community House on September 3. Other events include mindfulness workshops, resume writing seminars and technology classes. A gold coin donation is required for all classes and will be given to Western Chances. Melton mayor Bob Turner said the events were a “wonderful opportunity” for adults to learn new skills. “At Melton City Council, we encourage learning at all ages; whether it’s upskilling for a job, or getting the hang of new craft – learning something is incredibly rewarding,” Cr Turner said. For more information, visit melton.vic. gov.au/adultlearnersweek Heidi Frankl, Dante Galuego-Kaio and Mina Barghi are ready for the workshop. (Dennis Manktelow)
The Andrews Labor Government is delivering: FREE TAFE in job ready, priority industries Help for first-home buyers with cuts to stamp duty Rego instalments, and half price rego for trade apprentices To find out more, follow your local Labor candidate on facebook.com/Justin4Melton
Justin Mammarella
LABOR CANDIDATE FOR MELTON
E: justin.mammarella@vic.alp.org.au
Justin4Melton
Sumeyya Ilanbey