By NOEL MURPHY
SURF Coast Shire hopes its marginal state electorate will secure a third-time-lucky win on Spring Creek from the Coalition Government.
Council voted 4-3 this week against developing the green space, rejecting an independent panel’s report on a contentious C66 planning scheme amendment.
The vote restated council’s desire to set Torquay’s settlement boundary at Duffields Rd, preventing residential development of Spring Creek Valley.
The proposed C66 amendment will go to Planning Minister Matthew Guy for his final say.
Mayor Rose Hodge said she hoped he listened to council.
“This is the third time the council has voted in the majority. This is about democracy, about the community, which has spoken.”
The Government and Mr Guy also needed to acknowledge their thin grasp on power and Torquay’s marginal electorate, Cr Hodge said.
“He’s got to be brave in his decision-making and accept what the council and the community wants. We’ve got all the requirements for growth towards the north of Torquay.”
A 120-strong gallery welcomed council’s vote with applause.
Dissenting councillor Rod Nockles was disappointed at the “wrong call” but said he respected the right of council and the minister to make their decisions.
“The reason I’m disappointed is I believe the panel recommendations and (shire) officer’s recommendation struck the right balance between our current and future needs.”
