Murrindindi Shire Council Land Use Portfolio Councillor, Margaret Rae said essential elements for a successful community are the opportunities available for engaging our youth and for volunteering. That's why Council's notice of decision to grant a permit for the development and subdivision of 174 Grant Street, Alexandra for a Scout hall is so significant. Scouting activities have a long history in Alexandra and across our Shire, and offer significant opportunities for our youth and are well supported by volunteers from our community.
"The proposed development and subdivision of the site, which Council assessed at its August meeting, will see 174 Grant Street subdivided into two large lots. One lot will have the new 'multi-purpose' facility, the Scout Hall, and the other will contain the existing weatherboard hall ('Oddfellows Hall', which was constructed in 1899 though originally located elsewhere in town) and a 'heritage protected' tree," Cr Rae said. The subdivision aligns with the Heritage Overlay and will retain the heritage place and the significant tree within a single lot.
"Council is confident this approach to subdivision and development is consistent with the general residential character of the existing streetscape and will continue to protect existing historical value.
"We acknowledge some concerns expressed about future uses of the hall and are confident that the inclusion of appropriate community group activities will increase the opportunities for community groups and also maximise the use of the hall. Future uses will be those permitted under the zone and existing use rights. Additional uses may require planning approval. This facility will enhance and contribute to the life of the Alexandra and the broader community," Cr Rae said.
