The City of Kingston will seek a review by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) of the State Government's decision to approve the development plan for the former Kingswood Golf Course site in Dingley Village.
Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said this is Council's final opportunity to push for the major improvements the community deserves.
"We understand the land has been rezoned but this is a once-in-a-generation redevelopment that will permanently change the fabric of Dingley Village," Cr Oxley said.
"While some refinements have been made, many of Council's key concerns remain unresolved. This review is intended to secure the best possible outcomes for our community — to make sure this development is sustainable and supported by the right infrastructure."
Council's ongoing concerns include the design and ownership of key infrastructure, guidelines for new housing, traffic impacts, the loss of native vegetation, achieving some genuine affordable housing, and the form and links into public open spaces and the Dingley Village Primary School and Shopping Centre.
"Council and the community have invested years in trying to get this right," Cr Oxley said.
"We've put forward our submission in good faith to the State Government and the developer to achieve a balanced outcome, but there are still fundamental issues that need to be addressed. With so much at stake, we owe it to our community to make sure local planning and infrastructure needs are not forgotten."
Cr Oxley said Council has a very significant track record in working with the State Government to plan and provide permits for housing. This experience has reinforced the importance of meaningful collaboration, something which we feel remains possible to address our concerns.
"Our goal has always been clear — any development on this site must deliver lasting benefits for local residents and protect the character and liveability of Dingley Village," Cr Oxley said.
"This review is about making sure the plan delivers on that promise."
More information - Council and community angry at approval of Kingswood development
