By Sam Porter
Brimbank council has expressed concern over a change to the Brimbank Planning Scheme (BPS) which will make the planning minister the responsible authority for all planning approvals for Development Victoria’s proposed development in Cairnlea.
The decision to approve ammendment C241brim reduces the council’s authority of the project at 147a Cairnlea Drive and 265 Glenbrook Avenue, sites that were once part of the former Albion Explosives Factory.
Council is calling on the minister to give these powers back.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang condemned the change to the planning scheme.
“It is incredibly disheartening that the minister for planning has chosen to take over the role of responsible authority for Development Victoria’s proposed project in Cairnlea” she said.
“I am very concerned that Brimbank council has been stripped of its decision-making authority regarding this controversial project which had already been a matter of concern to both council and the community.
“Councils are well placed to determine planning applications within their communities, which is a key function of local government.”
A state government spokesperson said the change to the BPS will help to increase the number of houses, and housing affordability, in the state.
“We make no apologies for our bold reforms that will boost housing supply – helping young Victorians who are struggling to find a home to buy or rent close to the things that matter to them.”
Council also called for the quick release of the Government Land Standing Advisory Committee (GLSAC) report in relation to amendment C222brim.
Amendment C222brim sought a rezoning of the sites to facilitate the use and development of the land in accordance with the Cairnlea Comprehensive Development Plan (July 2021).
The amendment was prepared by the planning minister at the request of Development Victoria.
Council lodged an extensive submission objecting to the proposal, highlighting a range of concerns.
However, in a statement, Development Victoria acting group head housing Niall Cunningham told Star Weekly C222brim was withdrawn in March this year.
“An amendment to the current planning scheme [C222brim] is no longer required as we will develop plans that align within the existing planning frameworks,” he said.
“We’ll continue to work with Council as we progress housing delivery on the site.”
