City of Casey Councillors have voted to refuse a planning permit application for a proposed place of worship in Cranbourne South, citing concerns about protecting the Western Port Green Wedge and the suitability of the proposal at the location.
At its September Council Meeting, Councillors considered Planning Permit Application PA25-0374 for the use and development of land at 600 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne South, for a place of worship, vegetation removal and alterations to road access.
The application had been called in by Councillors for determination at a Council Meeting, where they voted in support of an alternative motion to issue a Notice of Decision to Refuse to Grant a Planning Permit.
In making its decision, Council determined the scale, intensity and development footprint of the proposal were inconsistent with the planning objectives and protections that apply to the Western Port Green Wedge. Councillors also raised concerns about the proposal's impact on the area's non-urban character, rural landscape and the long-term intent of the Green Wedge.
The decision follows significant community interest in the application, with Council receiving 237 objections from residents and stakeholders concerned about the proposal and its potential impact on the Green Wedge.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther said the decision was not about opposing places of worship in Casey.
"Places of worship play an important role in our community, and Councillors recognise there is a need for these facilities across our growing municipality," Cr Crowther said.
"The key question before Council was whether this particular proposal was appropriate for this location. After carefully considering the application, Councillors determined it did not align with the purpose and planning objectives of the Western Port Green Wedge.
"The Green Wedge provides important environmental, agricultural, landscape and open space values. Councillors considered it important to protect the long-term intent of this land and maintain the non-urban character that makes the area unique.
"We also heard the community's concerns loud and clear. There was significant community interest in this application, and Councillors carefully considered the issues raised as part of their decision-making."
Following Council's decision, the applicant has the right to seek a review of the decision through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Any appeal must be lodged within 28 days.
The full Council report, along with the meeting agenda and minutes which include the alternate motion, is available on Council's website.
