By BEN CAMERON
GEMBROOK could have up to five more medical practitioners operating in town after Cardinia Shire Council green lit plans for a new medical centre in Main Street.
The plan proposes to change an existing dwelling into a medical centre, but with a reduction of car parking.
“The subject site is not large enough to accommodate all the required car parking, therefore a reduction in car parking is sought,” a council report found.
The centre would include an office, waiting room, staff room, five consulting rooms, a pathology room and amenities.
The approved planning permit would allow for the centre to operate between 7.30am and 7.30pm Monday to Friday, and on Saturdays between 8am and 1pm.
Ranges Ward councillor Brett Owen said the centre would be another exciting development for Gembrook.
“It’s really needed in Gembrook,” he said.
“The town is really kicking goals, there’s a real buzz about it.”
Central Ward Councillor Jodie Owen supported the plan, as she understood how hard it could be to attract doctors to some areas.
Central Ward Cr Kate Lempriere rejected fears it would contribute to a shortage of parking spaces in the future.
“Nothing is going to make Gembrook another Pakenham,” she said.
However, Central Ward Cr George Blenkhorn, along with Port Ward Cr David Young, voted against the plan, saying the car parking design was “dangerous”, with cars entering and exiting via Main Street.
“People will have to reverse out round an S-bend,” Cr Blenkhorn said.
“On that S-bend is the exit to the waiting room.
“I cannot accept the risk of that plan… killing somebody.”
The proposed parking area contains 14 spaces, “a shortfall of three car parking spaces as 17 car parking spaces are required to meet the Planning Scheme obligations”.
A council report revealed that the Gembrook Township Strategy supported the plan as there was “an abundance of car parking available in Gembrook”.
