State and council reach common ground

WINCHELSEA Common is set to reopen within two months, following remediation of contaminated land and a management deal struck between Surf Coast Shire and the state government.

The council plans to have the Common open by the end of March subject to a final sign off from the government after a vote at last week’s meeting.

State environment authorities have determined the public space is safe for public access after ongoing closures due to contamination, including from lead bullets and clay targets during its use by the town’s former gun club.

Works included construction of a new all-weather shared path, landscaping and fencing for sensitive vegetation.

Under the new arrangements, the council and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have a shared Environmental Management Plan that outlines each organisation’s role in maintaining the site.

Surf Coast Shire will be responsible for day-to-day maintenance and DELWP the land manager following the resolution.

The council had twice voted to give up its responsibility for the Common in July 2020 and June last year, but said in its most recent resolution that “significant progress had been made with DELWP” about its concerns, which centred around liability for previously contaminated areas.

Acting mayor Liz Pattison said the council was pleased the growing community would soon have access to the area.

“Winchelsea Common is a much-loved open space, with significant environmental values. I know locals will be so happy that they will soon be able to again enjoy its walking trails and off-lead dog area,” Cr Pattison said.

“The new Environmental Management Plan will help ensure that DELWP and council can safely manage the residual contamination on site, while also facilitating public access and protecting the area’s environmental values.”

Winchlesea’s councillors also welcomed the decision; Adrian Schonfelder said it marked a “great night” for the town, while Heather Wellington said the news was “exciting”.

The state department also welcomed the development: “We’re delighted that the Winchelsea Common will once again be open to the public and can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” DELWP Barwon South West acting regional director Chris McNamara said.

“We’ve greatly appreciated the patience and understanding of the community, while these important works have been delivered to enhance and restore this site.”

Meanwhile, the council indicated it still expected DELWP to honour a funding commitment for a new bike track at the common, and would consider a report about the project at a future meeting.