By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
WALLINGTON residents are concerned planned expansion of neighbouring Adventure Park may lead to “Gold Coast style developments” according to a council report.
Residents have objected to a rezoning application, worried about the venue operating year-round with extended hours.
Objectors said the plans were too open ended, lacked specifics about future development, included a “totally inadequate” three metre buffer and did not address security issues.
Adventure Park wants to change from Farming Zone to Comprehensive Development Zone.
Planning portfolio holder Cr Michelle Heagney said the rezoning application would go to an independent planning panel following the five objections.
She said the rezoning was “in keeping with state and council planning policies which support tourism development”.
“Of the 10 submissions received, five had concerns about the amendment that generally related to a lack of specifics about future development.
“I’m confident that the developer and neighbours will be able to reach agreement if some changes are made to the documentation.
“We’d like to see the development of a master plan with opportunity for public input. The master plan needs to include specifics about security fencing as well as maximum building heights and setbacks.
“Adventure Park is such a tourism draw card and provides many seasonal jobs. It makes sense to rezone the land in line with its current use.”
Council will ask planning minister Matthew Guy to appoint an independent panel to consider all submissions and the council’s response.
