CAPEL Sound residents opposing an “affordable housing” development outlined their concerns at a Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting on 14 July.
About 20 speakers spoke at the forward planning meeting, with most opposed to the proposal to build on the 22,000 square metre allotment in Allambie Avenue, behind the Seawinds Community Hub.
The residents watched proceedings online from two rooms outside of the council chamber.
Spokesman Terry Wright said residents’ concerns included the long-term implications of concentrating disadvantage in an already disadvantaged area, the mental health implications of losing open space, potential traffic congestion and the impacts on wildlife.
He said speakers recognised the urgent need to address the current housing shortage and suggested alternative approaches.
Speakers also questioned the council on the ongoing ownership and long-term management of the site.
To support their presentations, the speakers associated with Capel Sound Community Group presented the council with aerial views of the site, a pie chart showing Capel Sound was over represented in the sites being considered, breakdowns of a petition, questions for the shire and research on affordable housing.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 26 July 2022
