By MELISSA MEEHAN
DISCOUNT supermarket chain Aldi’s move into Monbulk has been delayed after a planning permit matter was taken to VCAT.
Yarra Ranges Shire director of Planning, Building and Health, Andrew Paxton confirmed that Aldi had chosen to appeal the planning permit that was issued.
“The appeal is limited to specific conditions on the permit, namely setback distances of buildings to specific trees, and the installation of roller shutters/gates on the basement carpark and loading bay,” Mr Paxton said.
“Council’s planning department seeks to work with big business in a number of towns and areas in Yarra Ranges to encourage local employment and activity in these towns.
“In this case, Aldi has been given the certainty of being issued with a planning permit by the council.”
Mr Paxton said Aldi decided not to agree with a very limited number of matters on the permit, mostly relating to trees.
He said the VCAT process for major projects such as this had set out a streamlined process to work through issues with the aim to a swift resolution.
“It is disappointing that Aldi have chosen to appeal specific conditions on their permit, which were introduced to protect resident’s amenity,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing the works commence as soon as possible.”
When contacted by the Mail, Aldi declined to comment on the matter.
