Neighbours in Brindy Crescent fear fire trap if townhouses are built

Homeowners fear emergency service access to a Doncaster East park could be compromised if VCAT gives the green light to a townhouse project.

VCAT will decide on the future of a controversial development proposed for Brindy Crescent, Doncaster East, after Manningham Council knocked it back. Picture: Ellen Smith

Homeowners fear emergency service access to a Doncaster East park could be compromised if VCAT gives the green light to a proposed development.

A proposal by Song Bowden Planning to build six townhouses in Brindy Crescent was knocked back by Manningham Council in 2017.

The fate of the project will be finally decided by VCAT on February 15, with homeowners allowed until January 18 to finalise any submissions.

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The project would see a State Government-owned laneway between the two blocks, which provides emergency service access to Koonung Creek Reserve, form the main vehicular access point for the dwellings.

Eleven homeowners made submissions opposing the project when it was before the council.

Leader has spoken to five of them, with four saying they were not able to make submissions to VCAT.

Neighbours Carol, Andrew and Peggy — who has lived in the street for 56 years — standing in front of one of the disputed properties. Picture: Ellen Smith

Homeowner Peggy Martin said she had concerns about access to Koonung Creek Reserve and parking congestion.

“This has been a lovely suburban street but it’s getting ruined,” she said. But Ms Martin, 82, said she wasn’t up to making a submission to VCAT.

Mum Kathryn Douni said she would make a submission to VCAT but wouldn’t be able to appear in person.

She said she was worried the plans did not have enough parking.

“There would be no off-street parking for visitors. That's ridiculous,” she said.

Whalley Court homeowner Faye North said she accessed Koonung Creek Reserve via the laneway.

“The road is used for entry to Koonung Creek Reserve for fire engines and I also use it to get to the park with my dog,” she said.

Koonung Ward Cr Dot Haynes, who lives in Brindy Crescent, said access to Koonung Park, and the presence of protected native species were issues to consider.

“The developer is trying to push the boundaries without consideration of the amenity of the street,” she said.

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