By Jade Nacionales
RMIT Journalism student
Redevelopment plans for the Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club will now be managed by the state government but there is no indication that the current proposal will be changed in any way.
Local MP Melissa Horne says that Hobsons Bay Council “requested this project be assessed as a State Project, however this will not change the project or who delivers it.”
“This is the next step in progressing the redevelopment of the Williamstown Swimming and Surf Lifesaving Club – helping deliver modern, fit-for-purpose facilities for a club that plays a critical role protecting the community.”
She says that state projects are assessed through a “streamlined planning pathway typically used for projects delivered by or in partnership with the State Government.”
Council is required to disclose “detailed plans and technical reports” before construction can begin, with consideration for the “heritage and environmental requirements,” according to Ms Horne.
The announcement comes after months of community concern regarding council’s plans for a two-storey building on the crown land site including a gym and function venue. The WSLSC says the club is in desperate need of repair and the plans will create vital storage and training space.
Residents opposed to the development say it’s too big and inappropriate for the site and contravenes Council’s own heritage laws. A heritage report obtained by The Westsider confirms that the proposal is in breach of Hobsons Bay’s heritage-protection laws.
A statement from Hobsons Bay Council says the handover to the state means “the Victorian Government will now assess the project as it continues through the planning process, which will continue to ensure transparency, accountability and integrity.”
However many residents say the process hasn’t been transparent. The tax-payer funded project is receiving $11.3 million from the state and an extra $3 million from Hobsons Council. The Westsider has requested to see the terms of the funding agreement via a Freedom of Information request.
In a previous interview with The Westsider Melissa Horne has said that she hopes “the public realm around the club” will be improved as a result of the funding so that there are “better facilities for all to enjoy.”
Under the current redevelopment proposal there will be one extra male and female toilet cubicle and no upgrade to the remaining public facilities.
In August last year the Williamstown Labor Party branch passed a motion opposing the current club redevelopment plans.
