By Alesha Capone
A planning application to build a $56.1 million entertainment and commercial facility, including a gaming venue, residential hotel and apartments in Truganina, has been lodged with Wyndham council.
The proposal, for 231 Leakes Road, includes the installation of up to 80 electronic gaming machines (EGMs), and would be managed by the Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club.
During construction, 450 full-time equivalent (FTE) direct and indirect jobs would be created. Another 40 FTE ongoing jobs would be created at the venue, after construction.
The application includes plans for a six-storey building comprising conference facilities, a 200-seat bistro, café lounge/sports bar, gaming lounge and offices.
A seven-storey building with communal facilities, conference centre, office space, 44 serviced apartments and four penthouses would also be built.
More than 270 car parks are included in the proposal.
A Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal hearing on the planning application has been scheduled for August this year.
Wyndham councillors last week voted to support the planning application at VCAT, but under certain conditions, and without the inclusion of the gaming premises and EGMs.
The conditions include that no more than 950 patrons will be allowed on the premises at any one time, and that the venue could only operate between 7am and 2pm, except with the written consent of council.
A council report into the planning application said that, in accordance with the provisions of the Urban Growth Zone, it was exempt from public notice.
However, the report stated that a number of community groups have raised concerns related to the “social impacts” of the EGMs proposed for the venue.
Hobsons Bay council has also expressed concerns about the proposal. In a written submission, it stated the gaming venue would have “a net negative impact on the Hobsons Bay and Wyndham communities nearest to the site”.
“This negative impact will be created through the site’s proximity to future residences, communities vulnerable to gambling and busy arterial roads,” the submission said.
A social and economic assessment, submitted along with the planning application, said that the 80 EGMS would earn an estimated $7.52 million to $8.71 million within the first 12 months of operation.
More than five years ago, the council issued a planning permit for the development of a business centre, including 70 EGMs, at 231 Leakes Road. That permit has since expired.
