By BEN CAMERON
A BEACONSFIELD traders group, representing 29 local businesses, will take their complaints with a Cardinia Shire Council plan for the town to the next level next month.
The Beaconsfield Structure Plan will guide the town’s growth and development over the next 10 to 15 years.
A Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure hearing will be held on Thursday 29 January at the Cardinia Civic Centre where the Traders and Owners Group, represented by five residents, will present for 30 minutes.
“The proposals are a disgrace, and if people knew about it they would be outraged,” TOG spokesperson Anthony Cardamone said.
“Many local residents are outraged and feel that that the village feel of the area will be changed for ever by the proposals from the Cardinia Shire and many are concerned that there was a lack of consultation with the local community.
“The Beaconsfield Structure Plan has major ramifications for the Beaconsfield township.”
Mr Cardamone expected over 20 people to represent the group on the day.
The group have concerns with changes to the heart of Beaconsfield and the removal of car parking in some areas.
“Many of our local traders and owners are asking why the Cardinia Shire Council would do something that will cause economic damage,” he said.
“The Traders and Owners Group are outraged with how they have been treated by council and will be putting their views strongly at the Panel Hearing.”
He said any concerned Beaconsfield residents should contact their local councillors and attend the panel hearing.
However, Ranges Ward Cr Brett Owen said in November no car parking would be removed and the plan would “beautify the town”.
Council will be given four hours to present their case for the plan.
The Beaconsfield Structure Plan was first adopted by council in December last year and received nine submissions following public exhibition.
