Nillumbik Council has granted planning approval for a dwelling on Lot 2 Pigeon Bank Lane setting a disastrous precedent which could see the end of the ‘Green Wedge’ as we know it.
The land in question is a pristine, steep riverine bush-block in an extremely environmentally sensitive area. It is unique in having four distinct native plant communities supporting diverse wildlife populations.
The decision, against the recommendation of experienced Nillumbik Planning Officers to reject the planning application, will see the destruction of at least 746 trees to build a house and out-buildings on a ridge, creating a visual eyesore and threatening the nearby Koornong State Park bushland.
At 5.3 hectares, the block is smaller than the 8 hectare minimum subdivision required under Rural Conservation Zone Schedule 3.
Clause 35.06 of Nillumbik’s own planning scheme requires use of land to protect and enhance the environmental and landscape value of the land.
This proposal does the opposite.
Rural Conservation Zoning seeks to ensure that “the existing character, landscape quality, view-lines and other natural environmental characteristics of the area are protected and enhanced in an equitable and sustainable manner”.
The proposal also contravenes other clauses and overlays in the Nillumbilk planning scheme.
The ‘Stranded Asset’ argument, that a landowner has a reasonable right to build on such a site has no validity as RCZ zoning was introduced as early as 1973 and any land purchaser should conduct due diligence on any property before purchase.
The nearby Koornong land was purchased by the State in 1979 after an intensive campaign by the Warrandyte Environment League, supported by the Warrandyte Diary, to save it from destruction by inappropriate housing development.
Council has apparently identified about 700 similar undersized blocks which could be opened-up for development in Nillumbik.
This would destroy the Green Wedge and Nillumbik as ‘The Green Wedge Shire’.
Contact your Nillumbik Councillor now!
www.warrandyte.org.au