A PLANNING application for a 41 dwelling development in King Street, Wallan, has generated concern from district residents.
The planning application has received nine objections relating to increased noise, traffic, sewerage and privacy, and will be up for council discussion this month.
Residents were notified of the Melbourne-based developers, Bornova Projects, planning application for 141 King Street in early August.
The application is for development of 41 dwellings and an extension of the road on the 13,762 m2 site.
The company also has an interest in surrounding areas with plans for developments at Sienna Ridge in Hidden Valley, Wallan, and sites at Bundoora and South Morang.
King Street resident Mark Hilder is just one of the Wallan residents objecting to the King Street permit.
He said the most pressing issues are the increase traffic through the street, the change of atmosphere and windows overlooking other properties.
“I moved my family to Wallan almost three years ago, for a better lifestyle,” he said.
“We bought a residence in King Street because of the nice large houses on large blocks, the rural atmosphere, not having neighbours too lose by, the no through road (which meant not much traffic) and the peace and quiet.”
Mr Hilder said the introduction of 41 dwellings to the area would change the feel of the street that initially attracted many residents to the area.
“I believed buying my home in this nice quiet location my family would be safe. I no longer believe this would be the case if this development goes ahead,” he said.
“If this development goes ahead, I will not have one family next door but 41 families next door!”
Mr Hilder was also concerned about the lack of rural atmosphere, extra traffic, noise, limited privacy, water run-off, security and windows overlooking his property.
He said street lights would probably be installed and the possibility of being connected to a sewage system was likely, which he believed would result in higher rates.
Mitchell Shire sustainability development director Kerrie Birtwistle confirmed that Yarra Valley Water, the serving authority, has requested the owner of the subject land to enter into an agreement with it for the provision of water supply and sewerage.
The planning application will be discussed at council where the objectors will be invited to speak and present their case.
Submissions are still open.
