The Mornington Peninsula Shire and Peninsula Aero Club (PAC) have welcomed VCAT's findings of PAC's application for a Declaration. The judgement provides clarity around the interpretation and application of the planning permits and the activities that take place on the land, providing certainty for the operators, businesses and the community.
As the Responsible Authority, Council has a duty to ensure compliance with the provisions of its planning scheme and planning permits. Both Council and PAC acknowledged that it was in everyone's interest to seek a decision from VCAT as the independent umpire.
The key outcomes of VCAT's findings include:
- Use of the east-west runway for small aircraft (under 4500 pounds)
- Permission for small aircraft to fly at night
- Use of the Airport for planes and helicopters
- Limitations around movements of large aircraft (over 4500 pounds)
As well as clarity around definitions of 'night', 'emergency' and 'Airport'.
Council and the PAC are relieved that the issues have been definitively decided. This decision will enable everyone to move forward with a clear understanding of the use of the Airport.
The full report will be available on the VCAT website soon.
Quotes attributable to Mayor Anthony Marsh:
"It is great to finally have a definitive position from VCAT as the independent umpire. VCAT's decision provides Council, the Peninsula Aero Club and everyone in the community certainty into the future. We look forward to working with the Peninsula Aero Club and seeing our local aviation sector thrive as they move forward with confidence about their operations."
Quote attributable to PAC President, Jack Vevers:
"We're pleased to have received the much-awaited decision from the independent umpire. VCAT's decision gives everyone absolute certainty and it's time to accept it and get back to flying and sharing the airport with the community. We welcome the improved relationship with the Shire moving forward."
Photo: Mayor Anthony Marsh and President PAC Jack Vevers.
