Fitness plan for Emerald

CARDINIA Shire councillors last night (Monday) considered planning applications for a fitness centre and a new childcare centre in Emerald.
The proposed fitness centre was to redevelop 366 Belgrave-Gembrook Road as an indoor recreation facility with three offices, but the proposal would mean a reduction in parking.
The council received no objections to the development. Planning officers told councillors a fitness centre was considered to be an appropriate use of the site, but the reduction in the car parking was not in line with the council’s planning policies. They recommended it be refused.
Planning officers said the proposed childcare centre was an appropriate revitalisation for the former Salvation Army building at 267-270 Belgrave-Gembrook Road. The proposed centre, which would be able to accommodate 60 children, would include an outdoor area, 13 parking spots, a kitchen, laundry, staff room, toilet and storage facilities and an office. It was recommended for approval.