IT’S A MONSTER

Locals take their concerns about Barwon Heads development to Ombudsman

BARWON Heads home owners who live adjacent to what locals describe as a “concrete jungle” have taken their concerns to the Ombudsman.

Phill Angelovich and wife Karen live next to a three-storey development being constructed on the corner of Bridge Road and Grandview Parade.

Mr Angelovich said due to the impact this building had on their property, both visually and physically, they were at their wits’ end to find reasonable and fair justice for their rights as directly affected land owners.

The couple, along with many concerned locals, question why the City of Greater Geelong didn’t seek community consultation for a second and updated planning permit for the development.

“Originally this was to be a two-level development, with planning issued for that development,” Mr Angelovich said.

“I have spoken to council planning at length, and have brought up many issues.

“Planning has answered some of these issues, with their stance being justified by the new Residential Growth Zoning (RGZ) that is in place.”

Mr Angelovich said he had employed legal planners for advice and direction, which had uncovered a few items that should have triggered grounds for another planning permit.

“The use of the premises shows one dwelling, but the plans we have show – mid level – unit one; upper level – unit two; lower level – cafe/bar.

“This alone would trigger planning for the development.”

Mr Angelovich said the other item of interest was the cafe area.

“Statutory planning clearly states that the wall thicknesses should be included in the calculation for area.

“Our calculations make the cafe area 119 square metres, using their planning regulations. This again triggers planning, as (an area of) more than 100 square metres needs a planning permit.

“There is also the alfresco area that needs to be included in this calculation.”

He said the planning department’s stance was that the plans that had been provided to them for their assessment did not show these issues.

Local Ross Harrison took to Facebook last month to air his frustrations about the development, saying the development reminded him of a song by Bob Marley called “Concrete Jungle”.

“Still a work in progress and many more tilt slabs to come,” Mr Harrison said.

“How does this fit the coastal village feel, I ask… the City of Greater Geelong?

“A new three-storey development on Bridge Road – cafe/bar and a two-storey townhouse on top.”

The City of Greater Geelong made no comment as it is in caretaker mode until the council election ends on October 28.