By Romy Stephens
An attempt to develop a derelict site in the heart of Belgrave that has been labelled an “eyesore” has taken a hit, with Yarra Ranges Council refusing the construction of a multi-level building.
A planning application for 2-14 Monbulk Road was submitted in 2017. It sought to develop a multi-level structure for a supermarket, shops, cafe, child care centre and offices.
The application was refused by the council on 29 September.
According to Yarra Ranges Council, the proposal was refused because it failed to meet numerous clauses in the Planning Scheme.
Other reasons for refusal were that the development was not coherent with the area’s landscape and that it would have “detrimental impact” on the surrounding road network.
“The development, in terms of its visual bulk, will have adverse impact on the amenity of the Puffing Billy Railway Scenic Corridor,” the refusal to grant a permit document read.
The location is prominent in Belgrave, located near the main roundabout and Puffing Billy.
The site’s building was a former automotive repairs shop before becoming derelict once the previous business, New Belgrave Motors, vacated about three years ago.
Yarra Ranges Council also issued a Building Order for the site last month, which requires works to be carried out to address building risks before this Friday (9 October).
A Belgrave resident, who did not want to be named, said the building was a “safety issue” with jagged glass from broken windows posing a risk to passers-by.“This derelict building is the gateway to Puffing Billy Station and strangely no one is concerned about the broken windows and jagged glass at chest height, in one instance, facing the footpath,” the resident said.
“Belgrave, in general, is a tourist town and should be attractive. The shopkeepers are doing their bit but the roundabout traffic problems are a disgrace and the building under discussion is an eyesore.”
Yarra Ranges Council CEO Tammi Rose said private property owners were responsible for ensuring building on their properties were safe.
“When a risk to public safety or occupants of a building is apparent, Council can commence enforcement action, including issuing Building Orders requiring certain works to address that risk,” she said.
“If the Building Order requirements are not met, Council can escalate matters further by having the matter dealt with in court.
“However, Council’s preferred option is to work with property owners to resolve issues first, rather than progressing to options such as prosecution proceedings straight away.”
It’s understood that the applicant, Pulitano Properties, can make future applications for the Belgrave site – provided they meet the relevant parts of the planning scheme mentioned in the reasons for refusal – and can appeal the decision to VCAT.
The Mail attempted to contact the owners of the site for comment.
Community members with concerns about public safety issues can call the council on 1300 368 333.
