The details of the planned demolition of Kelly Park were the subject of debate during Wyndham council’s planning committee meeting on August 13.
The heritage-listed centre, which for decades served as one of Wyndham’s most popular community spaces, was destroyed by fire in June, 2022.
The decision to demolish rather than rebuild Kelly Park and turn the site into green space was made at a council meeting in December, 2023, but only made public in April this year.
An assessment of the impact on the heritage place was undertaken by external consultant who found that the recent buildings did not contribute to the significance of the park are not protected under the heritage overlay.
It further stated the removal of the building would positively impact park and its landscape.
Councillor Mia Shaw proposed an alternative recommendation for the planning committee to defer scheduled demolition and request council’s chief executive Stephen Wall bring back a detailed report of expenditures and depiction of a new Kelly Park Centre before February 2025.
She called for a new facility equipped with meeting spaces and a community kitchen.
“I think this is where a new and more modern community centre facility can be located,” Cr Shaw said.
“Current Kelly Park Centre is no longer fit for purpose and this is our opportunity to turn it into something more vibrant and accessible for our community.”
The motion was defeated six to four.
Cr Heather Marcus tabled a resolution for the planning committee to issue a notice of refusal to grant the planning permit on the grounds of it not accommodating people of all abilities, ages and cultural groups, further requesting details of finances and a conceptual design of the future structure.
“Kelly Park is more than just a building – it was a cherished community space that holds memories and played a crucial role in bringing people together,” Cr Marcus said.
Cr Marcus went on to invoke the facility’s history and the wishes of some community members to preserve it.
“So many people have been very distraught to think that we may demolish this beautiful building, and it can be brought back to its former glory.”
Debate broke out following Cr Hill’s support of the motion of refusal, with several councillors being instructed to not disclose information from an allegedly confidential meeting.
