Bass airfield: Controversial 79 Netherwood Lane proposal still under consideration
A controversial $45k airfield proposal in Bass is still under consideration after almost two years. Find out why there’s a delay.
Bass Coast News
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A controversial a recreational airfield proposal in Bass is still under consideration despite the application being lodged almost two years ago.
Quelch Town Planning applied for a planning permit with Bass Coast Shire Council in April 2019, proposing to build a $45,0000 airfield.
The application received 30 objections, with residents concerned about noise, disruption to wildlife, loss of privacy and lack of detail surrounding the proposed development.
One objector said they are “extremely concerned” because they have invested a huge amount of money in making their property environmentally-friendly.
“We have an accommodation facility where we regularly host guests who revel in privacy and seclusion while being emerged among the natural beauty of the area,” they said.
“We fear that this will be destroyed if it is invaded by aircraft.”
The 79 Netherwood Lane proposal included a 550m by 25m airstrip and a 10m by 24m aircraft hangar on the 40.2 hectare property.
A maximum of 10 aircraft would be stored in the hangar and 20 flights taken per day operating from 7am to 7pm from April to November, and 6.30pm to 9.30pm from December to March.
Objectors were also concerned about fire management given the area is within a fire zone.
“A grassfire would be catastrophic,” a person said.
“We take this point very seriously and we would be appalled by a council that would allow a development to proceed without strict enforcement of fire management and prevention strategies.”
Another objector said he was worried about the noise scaring his cattle.
“If my cattle is spooked, they will damage my fences resulting in animals escaping,” they said.
“Who will pay to repair broken fences?”
Chief executive Ali Wastie said council is working with the applicant to address the objectors concerns.
“Delays with the application have been primarily as a result of waiting on further information from the applicant,” she said.
“Given the number of objections received, this application will be presented to a Council meeting for decision.”
Quelch Town Planning were contacted for comment.
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