INDEPENDENT candidate for Flinders, Ben Smith, has called on the Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to give Peninsula residents a say on the $25 million Arthurs Seat Eagle redevelopment. The project is being fast-tracked through the state government’s Development Facilitation Program, bypassing local council oversight. There has been minimal consultation with the community about the impacts of the project.
“Decisions that will reshape our region should not be made from Spring Street without listening to the people who live here,” Smith said. “Arthurs Seat is not just another development site – it’s a treasured state park with deep environmental and community significance. The proposed 1.5km luge track and 25-metre observation tower would permanently alter its character, yet locals – who know this place best – have been sidelined.”
Mr Smith has released an open letter calling on Premier Jacinta Allan and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to:
- Visit Arthurs Seat and meet with the community before making any decisions.
- Release the full environmental impact assessments so the public can see the risks posed to the state park.
- Commit to protecting the natural and cultural significance of Arthurs Seat.
“This project is being rushed through without transparency or local input. Economic development should not come at the cost of proper planning and community consultation. Locals deserve a say in the future of their own region.”
Arthurs Seat advocate Sally Baillieu said, “Ignoring local voices on a project of this scale is reckless”.
“The government needs to come here, meet with the community, and listen to our concerns. We’re not against tourism, but it shouldn’t disregard the amenity of the people and wildlife that live here already.”
The open letter can be found at smithforflinders.com.au/eagle.
First published in the Mornington News – 25 February 2025
