Sparking a Facebook poll that attracted much attention and response by locals, the late notification of a Development Application (DA) to Federation Council in March has caused much concern.
Federation Council General Manager, Adrian Butler said the application was lodged by the owners of the property for establishment of a drive thru bottle shop, associated parking, loading area and landscaping.
Debate among residents highlighted the three existing venues offering alcohol sales as well as concerns regarding traffic control and the appearance of a modern building with bold signage directly adjacent others with strict heritage overlays.
Notification of the development resulted in receipt of 17 submissions raising concerns related to there being no need for another liquor sales outlet in Howlong, traffic impacts on Hawkins Street and Sturt Street, pedestrian safety in the vicinity of the site, social impacts of the proposal, detrimental impact to established businesses in Howlong; and the development not being in the best interest of the community.
Mr Butler said as Sturt Street and Hawkins Street are classified roads, comment from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has been sought in regard to potential impacts to the classified road network.
"Once feedback is received from TfNSW, the applicants will be given the opportunity to respond to the issues noted by Council's assessment officers, TFNSW and the community,” he said.
"If amendments are made to the proposal or additional information is submitted by the applicants to address the issues raised, the proposal will be renotified and any member of the community may make a submission on the proposed development.”
Not all residents were opposed though with an equally passionate group of residents supportive of the application.
“I hope it gets through, I think it’s a good idea and it will do well,” Mr Warner said on a Facebook thread.
“I really hope it goes through,” Ms Moloney said, “Move on and let Howlong go forward.”
Ms Leatham echoed similar support saying, “It’s not 1978 guys, it’s 2024, let’s move with the times.”
Though the Howlong Community Progress Association (HCPA) took note of all resident’s concerns, they were unauthorised to make official comment to council on behalf of individuals.
“As a community association, we can only submit objections to council from the association’s position on issues that have the potential to impact the community as a whole,” HCPA President Cheryl Cook said.
“HCPA did submit an official objection on the grounds that the proposed development application did not adequately address transport and pedestrian safety or traffic management on such a busy, prominent corner in the town.”
Mr Butler advised all residents that, given the number of submissions received in respect to the proposed development, the application would need to be reported to council for determination.
“I encourage residents to view our Snippets advertising that is published weekly in the Free Press, Yarrawonga Chronicle and on council's website,” he said.
“Residents can also view the Development Applications - Notice of Proposed section of our website to stay up to date with development applications, and further understand the legislative requirements on providing feedback on development applications."
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