Council is alerting the community that the owners of the former City of Brighton landfill site (Lots 1 & 2, 16 Ball Road in Heatherton) are seeking to have the land rezoned to allow for a residential development.
Kingston Council has raised long-held serious concerns regarding the proposal and believes the community should be kept updated.
What is the site?
The 12ha (approx) site was the former City of Brighton landfill (1960s - 1980s). It requires ongoing testing and maintenance overseen by the Environmental Protection Authority. The land is not currently zoned for housing.
Why is Council concerned about the site being potentially rezoned for housing?
Council has previously written to the EPA and Department of Transport and Planning to flag concerns that the use of the former landfill site for housing posed potential health risks for future occupants and neighbours.
Careful consideration must be given before housing is allowed to be built on any former landfill site, due to the potential long-term risks.
Who decides if the site can be used for housing?
The Victorian Government will decide whether the site can be rezoned. An independent planning panel (Priority Projects Standing Advisory Committee) has been established to consider the owner's (Leaf Corporation) request to rezone the site.
It will look at specific environmental, geotechnical, strategic planning and land use matters to assist the Minister in considering whether the land should progress through a rezoning application.
Will the community be allowed to speak?
No, sadly the Victorian Government has stated public consultation will not be undertaken. Council is incredibly disappointed and will continue to fight for community voices to be heard.
Who will be able to present at the panel hearing?
The panel may consult government agencies (such as the Environment Protection Authority, Suburban Rail Loop Authority and VicRoads) and Council, who will take part to speak up on behalf of our community.
When will the panel hearing take place?
The directions hearing is on Wednesday 4 March. See kingston.vic.gov.au/ball-road-heatherton for details on how to attend or watch online.
How can the community share their views on the proposal?
