Action group to keep close eye on Laminex redevelopment plan
A direct pedestrian link to Southland shopping centre is part of big redevelopment plans for a Cheltenham factory site. But an influential residents’ group say they will fight the plan if their major demand is not met.
Inner South
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An influential residents’ action group has vowed to keep a close eye on development plans for the former Laminex factory site in Cheltenham.
Earlier this month, the Leader revealed the 5.5 hectare site in the heart of the Bayside Business District would be redeveloped into a mix of office, commercial and residential space.
The future precinct will also include a large section of open space and provide a direct link to public transport and Southland Shopping Centre.
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The open space could potentially be used by the public, including residents of the neighbouring suburb soon to be known as Pennydale.
Pennydale Residents Action Group president Derek Screen said his group would be happy to work with Laminex owner Fletcher Building to ensure development of the site was respectful of the existing community.
However, Mr Screen warned “all bets were off” if Fletcher Building sold the site.
“Our concern is we don’t know whether Fletcher will develop the site themselves or sell it,” he said.
“If it is sold and a developer comes in with new plans to turn it solely into a residential block then we will fight tooth and nail to stop that.
“We will protect the residents of Pennydale and the area’s amenity because we’re very protective of what we have.”
Mr Screen said a large section of open space on the privately owned site should be left as it is.
“Even though we can’t use the space it does provide us with a buffer zone,” he said.
“It’s there for our protection and the protection of wildlife but if it’s under threat then we’ll be on the road fighting for our neighbourhood.”
Fletcher Building representative ERM Australia planner Frank Perry said the site would retain its open space, increase commercial floor space and boost jobs.
“We just want to open a conversation with the council to maximise the potential of this strategic site,” he said.
A key planning amendment, which involves the rezoning of the site, needs to be approved by the planning minister before any plans for the site are drawn up.
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