Bena Road project knocked back for now

PLANS for a large development at 99 Bena Road Korumburra will need to be altered if the developer, Hillview Rise Pty Ltd wishes to proceed with subdivision and building on the land, after South Gippsland Shire councillors voted on Wednesday against the project in its current form.

As reported in the Sentinel-Times in the lead up to the May council meeting, council officers hold a number of concerns about aspects of the Development Plan submitted.

Those concerns include stormwater management, bushfire risk and management, topographical considerations, traffic access and connectivity to the broader area, off-site development infrastructure, and biodiversity.

Locals have spoken out about aspects of the intended development they view as unsatisfactory.

They argue its density would be excessive for rural living, that Bena Road would be unable to adequately handle the volume of traffic that would result, and there would be a significant impact on its various intersections. 

While knocking back the intended development that was expected to provide 170 residential lots and 1.5 hectares of residential aged care over eight stages, councillors authorised council officers to consent to a future alternative Development Plan if it satisfactorily addresses the areas of concern.

An approved Development Plan is required for the site before any subdivision can occur.

During the council meeting, Cr Jenni Keerie spoke in support of the recommendation before councillors to vote against the intended Bena Road development in its current form.

“I’m a resident of Korumburra and I understand that growth is essential for our shire and it’s going to happen, but how that growth occurs is critical,” Cr Keerie said.

“It’s a matter of balancing growth, liveability, environment and neighbourhood and many other factors and there are elements to this Development Plan that I’m not comfortable with at this stage.”

Cr Mohya Davies also spoke in support of the recommendation not to approve the submitted Development Plan and to enable council officers to negotiate on any future plan put forward.

“There are a number of issues with this site, mostly around drainage, traffic and earthworks, also managing biodiversity and bushfire risk,” Cr Davies said.

“There is also some concern with soil contamination and as we’ve seen in neighbouring councils this is important that these sorts of issues are resolved at this stage of the development’s approval.”

Councillors voted unanimously against the development, with councillors Sarah Gilligan and Mick Felton absent and Cr Nathan declaring a conflict of interest and leaving the chamber before the matter was discussed or voted on.