VCAT Supports Council’s Decision After Years of Inaction by Owners of Bonlac Site

Baw Baw Shire Council has welcomed VCAT’s determination to uphold its decision not to extend a planning permit for a retail precinct on the former Bonlac Butter Factory site in Mason Street, Warragul.

VCAT found that the inaction of the site’s owner was to blame for the delay in redeveloping the key site into a retail precinct that would benefit the community and boost the retail industry in Warragul.

The VCAT decision stated that sufficient time had been allowed to develop the site and that support from the relevant authorities, including the Council, was provided.

“A significant five year period was given to start the development. No development started before the permit expired. The requirements of the permit, particularly the submission of amended plans, have not been met so as to allow development to start. The applicants have not advanced preparation for the project with significant vigour,” stated the determination.

“None of the development, including the demolition of the former butter factory buildings, started before the permit expired.

“The applicants were not dealing with disinterested parties, but with bodies that either supported or did not oppose the project.”

Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Councillor Diane Blackwood said the Council was keen as ever to get this key site developed as one of the top priorities of the Council.

“The Council is very willing to offer extensive support and assistance to get this key site developed,” said the Mayor.

“It is a significant 10 acre site adjoining Warragul’s CBD; one of the biggest unused retail sites in Gippsland. With a 3.8 per cent population growth expected each year, our community desperately needs a robust retail centre.

“The community is being unfairly penalised because of this site remaining undeveloped, and it is unacceptable for it to remain dormant.

“Investor confidence in the area has dropped due to the uncertain future of the site, and we are missing out on escaped revenue that really belongs to our community.

“The development that the permit related to was conceived eight years ago, and no longer constitutes the best outcome or meets the needs of the town.

“The Council wants to see the site developed sensibly and as quickly as possible; complementing the Warragul Town Centre Masterplan, providing linkages between retail spaces and exploiting the site to its maximum potential.

“I am pleased with VCAT’s determination to uphold our decision, and I look forward to continue working with the relevant parties on this high priority of the Council.”