Panel report in 20 days

A three day independent panel hearing last week considered submissions in relation to the heritage value of historic Drouin property The Hollies.

The Planning Panels Victoria hearing was chaired by Tim Hellsten and held via video conference.

Mr Hellsten will provide his report to council within 20 working days.

Parties to the hearing included Baw Baw Shire, developers Montham Pty Ltd, and community representatives Judy Farmer for Friends of Drouin’s Trees and Ellen Burrows for Drouin History Group.

Council considered a proposed planning scheme amendment for a permanent heritage overlay on the site in April. It was agreed to refer the matter to an independent panel for decision.

The Main South Rd property includes a ruinous historic house and collection of trees.

Mr Hellsten said he inspected the property in May ahead of last week’s hearing.

He said he walked around the perimeter and inspected the dwelling, ruined structures and vegetation.

Council determined its support for a heritage overlay to be placed on the property as part of planning scheme amendment C138.

The amendment was advertised late last year and council received six submissions.

Objectors claimed the heritage overlay had no justification and the site was negligible historic significance.

Officers said given the concerns raised by objectors, council should request Planning Minister Richard Wynne appoint an independent panel to make a decision.

The property, at 245 Main South Rd, is part of the Drouin precinct structure plan.

A planning permit was issued for a multi-lot subdivision of the land and a further application, currently being assessed by council, proposes demolition of buildings and native vegetation removal for construction of a road as part of the subdivision.

Interim planning controls were placed on the property after 10 trees were removed during a 160-lot residential subdivision.