SAVE WILLIAMSTOWN
SAVE WILLIAMSTOWN
‘This is a victory for common sense’
StarWeekly
19/6/2015
“..Future high-rise development on the Port Phillip Woollen Mill site in Williamstown will be capped at 25 metres or about eight storeys after the planning minister approved a Hobsons Bay council planning scheme amendment.
Richard Wynne on Friday announced he had approved the amendment which also requires the developer to make contributions for new local infrastructure and prepare a coastal hazard vulnerability report.
He said the amendment supported council and community views to ensure the 60 per cent of the site yet to be developed had mandatory height controls.
“Local residents of Williamstown have been campaigning against the development of a series of high-rise properties on this site,” Mr Wynne said.
“This is about listening to that community to ensure we build healthy, vibrant and sustainable neighbourhoods.
“This government encourages smart growth and development which enhances our suburbs rather than destroying their character.”
Williamstown MP Wade Noonan, who had given a pre-election promise that an Andrews Government would support any planning scheme amendment put forward by the council, described the move as a victory for the council and community.
“In Opposition, we pledged our commitment to the people of Williamstown’s right to have their say in how their suburb in developed and we have delivered on that promise,” he said.
“Finally, the people of Williamstown have certainty and it’s thanks to their efforts, along with Hobsons Bay City Council, who have advocated for the good of their neighbourhood.
“This is a victory for common sense.”
The “victory” comes too late to stem high-rise development on 40 per cent of the site which has already gained planning approval. ....”
Friday, 19 June 2015