Shops ‘threat’ to meatworks

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG’S only remaining abattoir is concerned about its future amid plans for a commercial centre across the road, according to management.
MC Herd managing director Frank Herd said his business had faced a number of attempts to infringe on the abattoir’s buffer zone.
“We will be protecting the buffer zone and this is an issue we will take up with council,” Mr Herd said.
The Independent reported last month that council had a new draft structure plan including a commercial centre opposite MC Herd in Bacchus Marsh Rd, Corio.
Councillor Cameron Granger told the Independent council would encourage the proposed business precinct to stimulate investment and employment.
The precinct could include retails shops and warehousing.
Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union assistant secretary Paul Conway shared Mr Herd’s concerns.
“We have 230 members employed there, so we certainly hope his business can continue,” Mr Conway said.
“I’ve spoken to him (Mr Herd) previously about development creeping in on him. As a union we would join with Frank and offer our support on any front.
“We will also follow it up with (federal Member for Corio) Richard Marles.
Cr Granger said he was keen to see a large employer like MC Herd “unencumbered”.
“They might have plans to shift at some point but any shift should be well into the future without residential encroachments on their buffer zone.”