Wharf bid in ‘review’

Kim Waters
RESIDENTS’ objections could force State Government into reviewing plans to demolish historic buildings at Queenscliff’s wharf, according to a council spokesperson.
The Borough of Queenscliffe spokesperson said council had expressed to Parks Victoria residents’ concerns about the plans to demolish the buildings and fill in a boat slip and a dingy berth for a car park.
“The ball is back in Parks Victoria’s court,” the spokesperon said.
“Residents don’t want what is potentially a terrific community area ending up with just a big, dull car park.
“They have concerns about access to the wharf, about the size of the car park, loss of amenity and the buildings that will be demolished.
“Council has taken on those concerns and conveyed them to Parks Victoria, so it’s up to them now to address the issues.”
The spokesperson said the borough had received more than 25 written objections to Parks Victoria’s application to redevelop the wharf area.
“It’s up to Parks now to address the issues and then they can come back to another planning review meeting or present the formal application for council to vote on,” he said.
The Independent revealed last month that outraged residents feared the area was already “locked up” for private development.
Member for Western Victoria David Koch last week backed a “community push” for public boating facilities at Queenscliff.
“It’s ludicrous that Parks Victoria plans to squander a further $2 million of taxpayers’ money, construct additional car parking and then giving the site to a private, previously underwritten consortium,” Mr Koch said.
“Despite the extravagant amount of taxpayers’ money spent on the Queenscliff safe harbour, Parks Victoria made no provision with the developers of the project for public access to the former fisherman’s wharf.”
A Parks Victoria spokesperson said the government body was “working closely” with council and the community on “the best options for improving the site”.
“The concept plans are based on community feedback and council regulations but at this stage there are still no firm, concrete plans,” the spokesperson said.
“We’re still in our public consultation process and talking with our stakeholders.
“There are no changes to the original plans as of yet and no firm decisions have been made on changes to the application or when it will be presented to council.”