Tara Murray
A social housing development in St Albans will only add to issues in the area, according to local residents.
The development on West Esplanade is part of the Big Housing Build, and is one three sites located in Brimbank.
The state government is overseeing the project.
One of the concerned residents is Jenny Isa.
In a letter, to opposition planning and heritage spokesperson Ryan Smith, she said there were a number of issues with the site.
“This development won’t have on-site support services like many other high rises do, it will also be the first five-storey development seen in St Albans in its history,” the letter said.
“This has set a dangerous new precedent, the charm of the West Esplanade will be eroded with the increase of cars, trucks to pick up the rubbish, amongst other things.
“St Albans is the most densely populated suburb in Brimbank, and has longstanding and chronic social issues, with respect to crime, unemployment, mental health and lack of support services.
“Providing homes is only a singular and a short sighted approach to fixing our issues, there needs to be a long term vision with a balanced approach, which has never happened in St Albans.”
Ms Isa said she is contacted daily by community members who are concerned about the destruction of the environment by “relentless concrete pouring and tree removal planning approvals”.
She said the suburb was already choking with cars.
“We want a long term vision, holistic and a balanced approach to planning in St Albans, historically it’s been band aid fixes for many issues, and nobody in the area, not even our local MPs for example, have not spoken up about these issues.”
Brimbank mayor Jasmine Nguyen said there is a critical need for diverse housing options in Brimbank, including social and affordable housing.”
“Access to well-planned social and affordable housing contributes to improved employment and education participation, better social connections and reduced demand for support services.
“While Brimbank is identified as a priority LGA [local government area] for the Big Housing Build rollout, there are concerns about the lack of consultation with the community regarding such proposals.”
Keilor Downs residents have also voiced their concerns about the social housing development in Copernicus Way, which is also part of the Big Housing Build.
In other municipalities, Melton councillors have raised concerns about the planning process, while residents in Geelong have voiced their frustrations.
The state government didn’t respond by deadline.
