Creek ‘sent north’

ERIN PEARSON
DUMPING plans to develop Spring Creek has resulted in a proposal for dangerous high-density housing in Torquay’s north, according to residents.
Ray Gully slammed the proposed development of almost 900 lots on 67 hectares off South Beach Rd.
“Where we live there are 59 properties on around 20,000 sqm each. Right across the road there’s going to be homes around 200sqm,” he said.
“The unfortunate consequence with Spring Creek is that the shire just seemed to have lifted what was going to happen there and dumped it on South Beach Rd. It’s not a good outcome for this area.”
Surf Coast council last month approved Ritzcorp Develop-ments’ application for 882 lots ranging from less than 300sqm to around 600sqm.
Ritzcorp lodged its planning application after council voted in July against developing an area 1km west of Duffield’s Rd, Spring Creek. Council’s plan had foreshadowed 1550 allotments in Spring Creek.
Mr Gully said he supported development in Torquay north but opposed the Ritzcorp density.
Peter Robinson, who lives near Mr Gully in the area known as Torquay Heights, wanted the developer to turn blocks facing South Beach Rd around to reduce risks to pedestrians and children.
The existing plan pointed 90 driveways onto the road, Mr Robinson said.
“It’s being done the wrong way. The risk of young children stepping out of their front gates and into a busy road is huge.
“I’m appalled by the fact the shire’s 2040 (growth) strategy wants to keep a coastal feel yet they are putting in total urban consolidation.
“We aren’t anti-development but we’re concerned about the level of it.”
Ritzcorp’s John Minuzzo hoped work would begin in March after council issued the first permits.
He dismissed rumours his company had yet to secure an agreement to buy the land from its owner.
“We’re due to settle on the land by the end of the month and that’ll happen as soon as we have our plans and permits in order.
“It takes a blooming long time to get these things done but we’re on the home straight.
“This development will be good for the area.”
Letters, page 18