Noise hotline

Andrew Mathieson
QUEENSCLIFF residents will be told to call a hotline to complain about noisy guests staying overnight in new group accommodation.
Borough of Queenscliffe has approved a planning permit to develop the former Whitehall Guesthouse to house up to 73 occupants next door to residential homes.
Concerned residents revealed their objections to the application in the Bellarine Peninsula Independent on February 16 on grounds of excessive noise from the elevated guesthouse.
Neighbours will now be able to access a telephone number to register a complaint or comment about the conduct of the patrons or the operation of the premises.
The borough’s council has pledged to staff the hotline at all times of the night.
Council also placed a ban on guests socialising outside the building, including on balconies, landings and at the barbecue, between 11pm and 7am.
Other conditions included a requirement for two persons aged over 18 must on the premises to supervise younger guests at night, a ban on loud speakers for announcements or music and installation of outside lighting without “unreasonable effects” on neighbours.
Council rejected an amendment to have a “responsible person” on site at all times.
Cr Val Lawrence, who moved the motion, said she could not speak on behalf of other councillors.
“I just thought that would make sure we would alleviate the problem in the minds of the local residents,” she said.
“You do things in which you think are in the best interest of the majority of ratepayers.”
The permit will come into effect from February 20.
The owners bought the building in 2002 after it had lay dormant for years.