Helipad’s turbulence

Campbell Point House faces opposition to flights

GEELONG council is preparing to make a decision on a luxury estate’s bid to build a helipad on its property.

Campbell Point House, pictured, in Leopold is seeking approval to construct the helipad in an existing planted forest, within 500m of surrounding homes.

Fifteen objections had been submitted to council before the public notice period ended last Thursday. Opponents of the project have raised several concerns, including the proximity to the RAMSAR-listed Lake Connewarre, late-night noise and lights, impacts on livestock and fears there will be more helicopter movements than proposed.

City of Greater Geelong’s director of planning and development, Kelvin Walsh, said the objections would be considered as part of the assessment process.

No date has been set for the council to make its decision.

If approved, the ability to fly in guests is set to usher in some highprofile identities.

Pop megastar Justin Bieber had booked to stay at the estate early last year but his plans were shelved when it became clear his entourage could not legally land on the property.

Songstress Adele had also reportedly been keen to stay at the estate.

In documents lodged with the Geelong council, Campbell Point House is seeking approval to land up to eight flights within a 30-day period.

Just four of those per year would be outside daylight hours, it said.

“The proposed helipad is located away from the coast to mitigate any impacts on the open and expansive views to the coast,” the application reads.

“It is located within the planted forest, which will provide screening to the helipad and ensures adequate separation distances are provided to existing dwellings on adjoining properties.”