By Jed Lanyon
A planning proposal has been put forward which could see the rezoning of the Healesville Green.
Letters sent to nearby landowners and businesses from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) shared that the land, owned by VicTrack, is in surplus to its operational requirements.
VicTrack has requested the land be rezoned from a Public Use Zone 4 to a Commercial 1 Zone “to enable it to be sold and allow for the redevelopment of the land”. This could open the site up to be used for retail, office and commercial uses.
The space beside Green Street has long become a popular place for local markets with residents keen to see the land purchased by Yarra Ranges Council so that it can be kept for community use.
Uncertainty over the future of the land has lingered for years, while Eildon MP Cindy McLeish previously said she hopes a rezoning could see council put in an offer for the land if the rezone favours the shire.
“Green Street has been a well-used public space for people to enjoy and it’s good to see a chance being given for the land to potentially remain in the community,” McLeish said in February.
Healesville resident Judy Osbourne fears the Healesville market will lose access to the space.
“Once again the Healesville community is faced with the threat of losing our open space at the corner of Green and River streets,” she said.
“On the first Sunday of the month, a steady stream of pedestrians criss-cross the grass to enjoy the vibrant range of casual stalls lined up in fine weather.
“Loss of this space would have a serious impact on the smooth running of the monthly market.”
Ms Osbourne said the space is used for a variety of festivals and gatherings by the community.
“These groups bring tourism and trade opportunities to the town and their participation should not be ignored.
“This open green space in the centre of town is much loved and valued by our community who have been passionate to retain it for public use. Let us make clear to DELWP that as residents we value this public green wedge and do not want it rezoned for development that might devalue the heritage nature of our town.”
The Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, has referred the amendment to the Government Land Standing Advisory Committee to consider and make recommendations on the proposed changes to the planning provisions on the site.
The advisory committee will consider the proposal and any submissions made to it and will also visit the site as part of its deliberations.
Local residents can make a submission on this proposal for consideration by the advisory committee at: https://engage.vic.gov.au/glsac/t25
Submissions must be received by 5pm, Friday 9 October.
