BASS Coast Shire councillors have voted in favour to discontinue two road reserves in Cowes and Wonthaggi for the provision of social and affordable housing.
The road reserves are located between Roydon Road and Wyndham Avenue, Cowes, and Ivor Street and Back Lane Henry Street, North Wonthaggi.
In November 2021, council identified the roads could be discontinued for Community Housing Victoria Limited (CHVL) to explore social housing developments.
CHVL eventually progressed with the sites at Cowes and Wonthaggi.
According to CHVL, once the shire had undertaken the road closure process and if the proposed development receives planning approval, CHVL will enter into a 30-year ground lease with the shire and be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the development for the duration of the lease.
At last week’s council meeting, shire documents revealed there were five submissions highlighting concerns for the Cowes site and two for Wonthaggi.
Concerns included loss of parkland / open space; including loss of vegetation; loss of natural, bushy feel, adverse impact to wildlife, inadequate allowance for parking, concern with social and affordable housing development including administration and perceived impact on property values.
However, the shire’s response was largely ‘this is outside the scope of a road discontinuance consideration.’
Speaking at the shire meeting, Cr Ron Bauer expressed his disappointment at the shire’s responses to the objections.
“This is not acceptable in my mind and is disingenuous to the community,” he said.
Cr Bauer said while there is a strong need for more affordable housing, he also appreciated the community’s view of ‘not in my backyard’.
“Housing must be used for staff at the new community hospital and Wonthaggi (hospital) and for staff on Phillip Island and not emergency accommodation,” he said.
“To my ward objectors, you are the lucky ones, you have a house, let’s open up the opportunity for others to live here.”
The CEO (or delegate) is now authorised to undertake the administrative procedures necessary to complete the road discontinuance.