A Hindu temple will be built in Lara after the development was approved by a City of Greater Geelong planning committee.
The committee, made up of councillors Kylie Grzybek, Anthony Aitken, Trent Sullivan, Eddy Kontelj, Jim Mason, Belinda Moloney, Sarah Mansfield and Ron Nelson voted unanimously togrant a permit for the construction of a place of worship on private property on Research Road in Lara.
City officers had recommended the $450,000 proposal, which received one objection, be refused.
Planning committee chair, Cr Grzybek said it was appropriate that members of religious groups had opportunities for worship without negatively impacting on the character of the rural living zone.
“We respect that concerns were raised by one nearby resident, but it’s important that we allow places of worship to be constructed in areas where we don’t believe the development will have a negative impact on neighbourhood character,” Cr Grzybek said.
Cr Anthony Aitken said it was the correct decision for councillors to support the Hindu temple with a planning permit.
“This part of Lara already has a Thai temple living in harmony with the local community,” Cr Aitken said.
“This decision enhances the rich diversity of community that has always lived in our northern suburbs of Geelong, and we welcome the Indian Hindu community to the north.”
The planning permit allows for the construction and use of a building to serve for religious group activities, including hosting weekly activities and community events.
Planning permit application documents said the site would cater for a maximum of 60 people with operating hours from 5-8pm daily and 8-11am on Sundays. It would also host an annual festival in October.
The development will use the existing property access on Research Road and provide informal parking in a new gravel area to cater for 30 vehicles.
The use and development of the site will include a building with footprint of just over 1000 square metres, and a maximum height of 11.2 metres.
The ornate building will include a main hall with a stage and shrine, meeting rooms, toilets, office, and a book stall.
The site covers more than two hectares and currently contains a three-bedroom dwelling with a double garage and a detached outbuilding.
No external speakers, weddings or funerals are proposed for the site.
