Agenda item

SUMMARY

The application is for the use and development of a telecommunications facility, ancillary equipment, and the construction of a chain-link fence around the tower and ancillary equipment. No vegetation is proposed to be removed.

The property is a large rural block with an area of approximately 61.6 hectares and is mostly cleared of vegetation, except for a few scattered trees across the property. A dwelling and associated outbuildings are in the north-east portion of the site, with access from the north-east corner of the site along Edward Road. The site also includes a multiple dams used for agricultural purposes, with open paddocks for animal grazing and a stand of olive trees in the north-east corner of the site. No changes to use of the remainder of the property is proposed.

The application was advertised, and forty (40) objections were received. The objections raised concerns about public safety and health issues, environmental concerns relating to flora and fauna, noise, proximity to residential properties, visual amenity, devaluation of property, claims of ‘assault’ and insufficient and ineffective public notification/period.

The proposal has been assessed against the relevant provisions of the Yarra Ranges planning scheme and the Yarra Ranges Council Telecommunications Facilities Policy (2012). It is consistent with the planning scheme and policy as they relate to the consideration of telecommunications infrastructure, visual amenity, and protection of native vegetation.

Accordingly, it is recommended that the application be approved and a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit, subject to conditions, be issued.

In accordance with Governance Rule 58, Daniel Prior spoke in support to the recommendation included in the officer report.