By Peter Douglas
Yarra Ranges Councillor Mike Clarke is calling on hills residents to consider the visual impact of a proposed development on the iconic New Belgrave Motors site.
Though supportive of the three-storey low, two-storey high development, Cr Clarke is concerned the architect’s designs for the major development are not in sympathy with the existing Belgrave streetscape.
The building stretches 120m along Monbulk Road and is set to include a supermarket, childcare centre, shops, offices and a two-level parking station.
Though Cr Clarke believes more could be done to improve the site for the wider community.
“I’m not against the development, it’s purely the streetscape doesn’t fit with the culture that exists in Belgrave,” he said.
“The building rises from the street path and will be the most prominent building in Belgrave, so it’s important people speak now on this major project.
“We want to get in early on this planning process.”
According to Cr Clarke, he has received social media correspondence from members of the community, who have expressed concerns over the design.
Present owner of the site, Joe Pulitano, from Pulitano Properties, has submitted the application, with the estimated cost around $22 million.
New Belgrave Motors is planning to relocate to another site, announcing on their Facebook page on 7 September last year they would shift to a new workshop in Tecoma.
Cr Clarke said he had spoken at length with the developer, Mr Pulitano, during which he expressed his desire to see accommodation included.
“There are many easily accessible bed and breakfast accommodation spots in the area, but they can be quite expensive,” he said.
“I believe backpacker accommodation would be a great asset for the region.
“However, Joe has maintained it wouldn’t be financially viable.”
Cr Clarke believes there is adequate space for such a development, given the size and depth of the block.
Meanwhile, there have been additional concerns raised through social media sites, including Facebook.
The issues have ranged from traffic, to the overall size the building.
Mr Pulitano and his son are expected to present their plans to the public at the meeting, with attendees to be given a chance to provide feedback.
The meeting will be held at 10am in the Belgrave Library on Saturday 18 March.
The application YR-2017-30 is now on public display through council’s ePlanning website, which shows the five-storey development.
