Kingston calls for changes to golf course redevelopment
Kingston Council joined with community voices and state and federal members of parliament calling for changes to the proposed redevelopment of the former Kingswood Golf Course in Dingley Village.
Council engaged a range of experts and legal representatives to present a strong argument to the Victorian Government’s Golf Course Redevelopment Standing Advisory Committee, which was appointed by the Planning Minister, to consider the proposal to rezone and redevelop the Kingswood Golf Course for a residential development.
Council appointed experts to assist in the following areas:
- Native vegetation, biodiversity and fauna, including birds.
- Aboricultural advice on tree retention and management.
- The approach to active open space on the site.
- The approach to passive open space and landscape design.
- Opportunities for affordable housing and required additional community infrastructure.
- Appropriate strategic planning principles for the site.
The Councils arguments were led by experienced planning lawyers.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said Council had invested significant time and approximately $500,000 to ensure the impacts of the proposed development on the local community were understood and properly considered by the Advisory Committee prior to making its decision.
“Council made a commitment to the local community that we would make a comprehensive submission to the Standing Advisory Committee to ensure community concerns about the proposed redevelopment were delivered loud and clear. I’m proud we have delivered on that,” Cr Staikos said.
Caruana Ward Councillor George Hua said the proposed redevelopment was a major issue of concern for the local community and would have a significant impact on the area if it proceeds.
“Council refused an early proposal for the site after we received a record 8000+ community submissions rejecting the proposal. Now the decision rests with the Victorian Planning Minister following the Government’s Golf Course Redevelopment Standing Advisory Committee Hearing. It was vital that local community views were strongly represented at the hearing,” Cr Hua said.
The Advisory Committee is required to consider submissions before providing a report to the Minister for Planning, which will include recommendations on whether the proposal should proceed and if the proposed changes to the planning controls are suitable.
The report is expected to be lodged with the Minister this month.
