Workers’ housing plan approved for former Naracoorte TAFE site
A controversial plan to turn Naracoorte’s former TAFE site into workers’ accommodation could begin construction within six months after it was given the green light by the local council.
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A contentious plan to turn Naracoorte’s former TAFE site into accommodation for almost 90 people has won development approval.
Naracoorte Lucindale Council’s development panel has approved the plans by developer Tony Dawson and his family, with work due to begin in the middle of 2010.
Locals packed the Council Assessment Panel Meeting on Thursday night, with 27 residents speaking about the proposal, all with concerns.
More than 300 people sent in written responses to consultation about the project.
It is expected to accommodate people working at town’s meatworks, shearing contractors and vineyard workers.
Residents have raised a range of worries about the Gordon St project, including the small size of its rooms and its potential impacts on traffic, noise, privacy and the area’s character.
Mr Dawson said the plans to fit out the site’s existing buildings with up to 88 bedrooms would address a “significant shortage” of workers’ accommodation in Naracoorte.
“A lot of houses have 10-15 people in one house, so there’s overcrowding and it’s unsafe,” he said.
The Robe man’s family bought the site from the State Government three months ago, after it had been vacant for about three years.
Mr Dawson said workers would stay for a minimum of 28 days, and there would be less traffic and noise than the site’s former days as an education hub.
“If there were any issues with privacy we’ve agreed to create some sort of fencing or screening,” he said.
He said the development only accounted for about 10 per cent of the site, and though the family had plans for the remainder, he did not give details.
Resident Cam Watson said residents were in “disbelief” following the decision, and may appeal the ruling.
“The town hall was pretty packed on a hot night. There’s a lot of concern,” he said.
“I think we’re all in a bit of shock at the moment.”