Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley is calling on the Victorian Government to allow proper time for thorough assessment and genuine community consultation on the latest development plans for the former Kingswood Golf Course site.
Developer Slattery is finalising its plans and gave the Dingley Village community a first look late last year, but Cr Oxley says there's real concern that Council and residents won't get enough time to properly review the complex proposal.
"We're demanding meaningful community engagement before anything is set in stone," Cr Oxley said.
The proposed development would increase Dingley Village's population by 20-25%, making community input critical.
"The community has already shown massive interest in this project - 8,000 objections were lodged against a previous plan," Cr Oxley said.
Council is also questioning how public assets will be managed and whether the development will contribute adequately to essential community infrastructure.
"Once built, Council will be responsible for roads, footpaths, parks, open spaces, and services for thousands of new residents," Cr Oxley said.
"We must have a fair say in how these assets are planned and maintained."
Cr Oxley recently wrote to Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny, welcoming her decision to require public consultation on the Development Plan - something not legally mandated.
"We're pleased the Minister is allowing consultation, reinforcing the government's own Advisory Committee findings that past consultation has been inadequate, and that comprehensive engagement is essential," Cr Oxley said.
Kingston Council is calling on the Victorian Government to commit to a transparent, in-depth consultation process that genuinely considers community concerns.
