At the August Ordinary Meeting of Council held last night, Councillors voted to reject a residential subdivision comprising 92 conventional lots and 1 super lot containing an additional 11 dwellings.
The proposed development sits between and to the rear of the General Store Post Office and Houdini’s Café and includes the construction of a two (2) lane road providing direct access onto the Old Calder Highway.
Council received 12 objections, some of which highlighted traffic congestion and conflicts on the Old Calder Highway in proximity to the existing railway crossing.
Cr. Sophie Ramsey questioned the ability to make a right hand turn from the development and the lack of safe pedestrian access from the railway station to Houdini’s Café.
Many residents are aware of the established safety issues at the Diggers Rest railway crossing which are expected to worsen with the level of urban growth currently underway.
The fatal collision on July 25, 2010 where the remains of the struck vehicle landed on the platform is a reminder of the level of destruction capable at this location.
Cr. Michelle Mendes was quick to move a motion to reject the application which was supported by all Councillors present and seconded by Cr. Lara Carli, subject to the provision that Punjel Drive access was withdrawn from the motion.
It’s expected the developers will refer the application to a future VCAT hearing.