Liam McNally
Kundrathu Murugan Kumaran Temple in Deanside is ready to expand with a planning permit for a new community hall being approved by Melton council on Monday, June 26.
The temple is a Hindu temple based on the South Indian traditions.
The community hall will allow the temple to host small functions and religious weddings as well as conduct classes on religion, yoga and meditation.
The permit also includes an additional 164 car parking spaces, and will allow for up to 520 visitors at a time for major events.
The application went before Melton council at its council meeting and was met with 14 community objections, the majority of which centred around concerns regarding increased traffic congestion on inadequate roads and a lack of parking.
Melton council planning services manager Robert Baggio said officers were particularly sensitive to the concerns that were expressed by residents in the area, however, they are satisfied that the existing road network will be able to accommodate the increased traffic and there is adequate car parking on site.
Councillor Goran Kesic supported the application saying the temple plays a vital role in providing individuals with the space to explore and practice faith and find support.
“The temple is actively engaged in charitable work and the community outreach programs they provide support those in need, address social issues and promote a positive change in society,” he said.
“The temple often serves as a hub for organising and volunteering efforts and coordinating community service projects, so these reasons highlight the importance of temple as a place of worship, community building, spiritual growth, education, and service.”
Temple project manager Kasi Nathan said the approval of the planning permit is exciting.
“We have been working on this plan for about three years so it’s nice to get this town planning application approved and we are thankful to the council for favourable consideration,” he said.
