The company that submitted an application to Brimbank council for a new supported residential services (SRS) facility in Sydenham has addressed locals’ security concerns surrounding the proposed facility.
In a written statement sent to Star Weekly, director of Peyton Waite PL Town Planners Martyn Thompson said the new facility at 1-5 Profita Avenue, Profita Lodge, “would not require an onerous security system.”
However, Mr Thompson assured concerned locals that “facilities will be incorporated into the operation… to ensure appropriate surveillance, safety and security for all concerned.”
The statement comes after locals opposed the proposal for a new SRS, citing fears that it would result in anti-social behaviour in the area similar to that caused by residents of a previous SRS facility at the same site operated by different owners.
The previous facility, Sydenham Grace, was closed in July 2022 after a state government investigation discovered Grace Disability Services (GDS) had failed to meet regulations to protect the health and wellbeing of its 34 residents, resulting in the cancellation of Sydenham Grace’s registration.
Sydenham locals alleged that some Sydenham Grace residents roamed the streets and committed anti-social acts within the vicinity of a childcare centre.
“We can’t speak for the previous owner and occupiers who, as we understand, ran a different level of service for a different type of clientele…something the facility was not purpose-built for,” said Mr Thompson.
“The new owners and proposed operators of Profita Lodge are an established provider of supported community care services and currently operate from two other locations in Melbourne.
“The type of client Profita Lodge caters to is self-funded and not requiring government assistance.”
According to Mr Thompson Profita Lodge will cater for residents over 60 and will not accommodate those with substance and alcohol-related issues.
Sydenham resident Brendan Maughan, who has lived near the site for over a decade, said he would prefer a unit block to be built instead.
“They say it’s tailored for people over 60 and no drugs, but there’s nothing stopping them from changing that,” he said.
Mr Thompson said Peyton Waite PL Town Planners “would welcome the opportunity to participate in a council arranged meeting to discuss the application with residents” once the advertising period had expired.
