Demolition court fine

City Hall has received more than $33,000 in penalties after the illegal demolition of a heritage house facade in Geelong West.
Geelong Magistrates’ Court awarded the costs after finding the demolition of the dwelling at 205 Hope Street breached a planning permit.
City planning and development general manager Peter Bettess said a heritage overlay had covered the house.
The applicant for the planning permit had sought a partial demotion while retaining the facade, Mr Bettess said.
Council granted a permit after approving plans showing the facade still in place but it was demolished before construction commenced, he said.
“Recognition and protection of heritage places is a crucial component of planning within the City of Greater Geelong.”
The decision sent a clear message of the consequences of not complying with permit conditions, Mr Bettess said.