By JESSE GRAHAM
YARRA Ranges Council is set to sell historic land in Yarra Glen’s main street, but cautious councilors said protecting the town from inappropriate developments is paramount.
At its 25 February meeting, the council resolved to advise of its intention to sell the site of 39-41 Bell Street, Yarra Glen, with four weeks for submissions on the site.
The site hosts the old maternal health building, which was built in 1954 and is currently disused, and a public toilet.
Mayor and Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister put forward a motion at the meeting for the council to consider a Section 173 agreement to be placed on the land if it is sold.
The agreement could mean that future owners of the land have to follow certain conditions outlined by the council when developing the land.
The motion passed on a four-to-three vote following debate between councilors about potentially scaring buyers away against the importance of protecting the town from inappropriate development.
Cr McAllister said the community consultation on the potential sale, which was carried out in September 2013, listed the potential for the land to be sold with a planning permit on it for the same purpose.
She said that protecting the land was important and raised doubts about supporting the land sale, if protective measures weren’t applied to the area.
“We have a commitment to the community that we will protect that asset – not just sell it to the highest bidder,” she said.
“We need to make sure, in whatever ways we have in our tool kits, that the best possible outcome is achieved for the community.
“If we can’t provide protection around it, I don’t think I support the sale of the asset.”
Cr McAllister said the council’s decision was not to sell the land immediately, but to put the notion to the public and get further consultation on the matter.
Proceeds of the sale of the land, should it be approved after the consultation period, will be committed by the council to the stage two development of the Yarra Glen Memorial Hall.
Correction
In last week’s edition of the Mail, it was stated that the site at 39-41 Bell Street contained “the maternal health building – now used as the Yarra Glen Toy Library”.
However, the Mail has been informed that the buildings on the site are currently unused, with the exception of the public toilets building.
The Mail apologises for the mistake and for any inconvenience caused.
