Werribee residents are raising funds and bankrolling their own legal team to fight a 49-block subdivision at Riverbend Historical Park.
Residents have so far pledged more than $3000 through an online fundraising campaign to fight a planning permit application to subdivide a block of land, bounded by Purchas Street and Heaths Road, into lots of between 400 and 500 square metres.
More than 96 residents formally objected to the planning application, which was knocked back by Wyndham council at its December 2015 meeting.
The developer has since lodged an appeal at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which is scheduled to be heard over three days from July 6.
Riverbend resident Denise Huxtable said about 50 residents were mounting their own legal battle because council officers originally recommended that the permit be approved subject to conditions before councillors voted the permit down.
“Councillors said no, but the town planners originally said yes,” Ms Huxtable said.
“I know the council are meant to be fighting against it, but a lot of people don’t have much faith that that’s what’s going to happen.”
Ms Huxtable said residents had already found a local solicitor who would represent them for a minimal fee.
She said the subdivision “appears to neglect all aspects of amenity and liveability”.
“This high-density subdivision is contrary to the established blocks on either side, none of which are under 800 square metres,” she said. “The developer has no concern for the historical value of this public space, the ecological environment and recreational benefits to our community.
“There are concerns that the streets in the development will be overflowing with cars as there’s very minimal parking with so many dwellings so close together. It really is a very unique area,” Ms Huxtable said. “It’s a public spot that should be enjoyed.”
Click here for more details of the fundraising campaign.
