So what has changed?
I am one of the objectors to the proposed multi-unit development at 42-44 Wanaka Drive, Taylors Lakes [Revised unit plans get the nod, June 17].
I also objected to the original proposed development of 26 units and stated my grounds for objection at VCAT alongside Brimbank City Council, which refused this proposal.
The council originally refused 26 units on the grounds there were too many for the size of the land and that our local area is a non-activity area not close enough to local amenities such as public transport, shops and entertainment.
At the VCAT hearing, the council said it wouldn’t be opposed to a development of 16 units or fewer.
The developers had a chance to take the refusal to the Supreme Court and get the decision overturned, which they did not do. But they resubmitted plans for almost exactly the same proposal . . . instead of 26 units, they proposed 25.
Now the council is looking at granting a permit, which is against everything they fought for at VCAT last year.
Our area hasn’t changed to accommodate the population growth, so how can the council do a complete backflip and even contemplate a development that they themselves realise will have huge negative effects on the local community?
Megan Garrow, Taylors Lakes
Are we wandering into danger?
[Re: Watch out for pedestrians, June 10]
Would earphones and texting have anything to do with this increase in pedestrian deaths?
Jac, via web
Crime-fight budget ‘growing’
The Victorian government is committed to delivering on its strong law and order agenda and enhancing community safety, which is in direct contrast to Labor’s soft-on-crime approach.
Since the Coalition government came to office we have delivered:
• The largest crime-fighting budget in history – $2.43 billion for Victoria police in 2014-15, a 22 per cent increase on the last Labor budget;
• The single largest law and order recruitment exercise in Victoria’s history;
• More than 1500 extra frontline police with a further 200 to come by November;
• More than 760 Protective Service Officers to protect commuters at rail stations, with a further 180 to be recruited by November; and
• Crucial frontline taskforces targeting family violence, organised crime, outlaw motorcycle gangs, illicit drug manufacture and distribution, and road safety.
Contrary to Labor’s outrageous scaremongering, more police means more crime detected, more criminals caught and safer communities.
While Labor plays politics, the Napthine government is getting on with the job of building a better and safer Victoria.
Kim Wells, Minister for Police and Emergency Services
