The state government is looking unlikely to budge on its intentions to build a maximum security youth detention centre in Werribee South.
Wyndham council chief executive Kelly Grigsby and mayor Henry Barlow met with state youth affairs minister Jenny Mikakos today to seek further information and clarification regarding the development.
Ms Grigsby said both she and Cr Barlow outlined the community’s strong opposition to the proposed location, which was today confirmed at lots 47, 48 and 49 Hoppers Lane.
“We raised specific concern with the insufficient buffer to the intensive agricultural zone of Werribee South as well as future residential communities and the Werribee tourism precinct,” Ms Grigsby said.
“We also highlighted that the project threatened the success of the East Werribee National Employment and Innovation Precinct.
“The minister listened to these concerns, however she indicated that an exhaustive process had been undertaken in determining that Werribee South was the best site for the youth detention centre.
“Whilst the minister is still of this view, she opened the door for further discussions with council and we are pleased to be able to have more opportunities to represent the views of our residents.”
The meeting follows a Star Weekly interview with Werribee MP Tim Pallas today, where Mr Pallas said the council would have to come up with “compelling arguments” to persuade the government to build the facility in another location.
“The government’s been very clear, we have a preferred location… and that’s what we will be seeking to deliver, that preferred location.”
A large crowd is expected to congregate at Station Place on Monday night as Wyndham residents rally to voice their opposition to the high security youth prison.
The Speak Out – Wyndham’s Voice group has secured permits to shut down Watton Street between Cherry and Bridge streets, and will host its community meeting next Monday, February 13, from 7.30pm at Station Place.
At least 20 Werribee South farmers will ride their tractors from the proposed Hoppers Lane location and past Werribee MP Tim Pallas’s office, to the public meeting, bearing signs that will read: “Not in Werribee South”.
