Sale of explosives site in Cairnlea opposed

Fears that Cairnlea is losing its “country feel” have led to residents urging Brimbank council not to sell 1.9 hectares of land on the corner of Furlong Road and Cairnlea Drive.

Council administrators last week voted to put the former Albion Explosives Factory site up for sale.

Five submissions to the council suggest alternatives for the site, including a community garden, children’s playground, leisure centre, a civic or council service centre, or more trees.

“Council can choose to take the money or enhance the beauty of a suburb where people want to live. In my view, the choice is clear,” one resident submitted.

A member of the former Albion Explosives Factory Consultative and Steering Committee said the sale decision did not honour community wishes.

“The community was promised a municipal service centre years ago,’’ the submission said.

Administrator Jane Nathan said council had “a reputation for vegetation” and would not shirk its responsibilities in regards to trees.