The Wellbeing Planet drug rehab centre given the thumbs-up by council
A ‘DODGY’ drug rehab centre that was operating without a permit at a former brothel site in Elsternwick has been approved by the local council, despite fierce community backlash.
Inner South
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A ‘DODGY’ drug rehab centre that was operating without a permit at a former brothel site in Elsternwick has been approved by the local council, despite fierce community backlash.
Glen Eira Council has approved retrospective plans for “The Wellbeing Planet” rehab centre at the former Daily Planet brothel in Horne St.
Neighbours said they feared for their safety after violence and vandalism had spiked since the rehab centre began operating without a permit in April.
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But reports of fights in the street and several windows being smashed in at nearby businesses didn’t dampen Glen Eira councillors’ support for the Elsternwick centre .
It’s believed up to 12 people are already living at the voluntary rehab centre, which still has most of the decor left behind from the former brothel, including racy photos and multiple beds, showers and spa baths in each room.
One mum living nearby, who did not want to be named, said the “whole thing seemed dodgy”.
“We’ve lived with it being a brothel but this is a different kettle of fish,” she said.
“These people are able to walk down to the chemist to get their prescriptions, and free to go in laneways without any security guards.”
Other concerns included “no net benefit to community members”, the location not being appropriate for a rehab centre.
But Cr Delahunty said it was disappointing the community was so opposed.
“It disheartens me to hear objections because some are a little bit silly,” she said.
“I’d urge people to try and avoid using the term “these people”, because they are actually just us … and we can help them.”
Cr Nina Taylor said it wasn’t appropriate to push out vulnerable people, and Cr Joel Silver said he hadn’t personally heard much opposition from residents.
“If you’re going to rebuild your life somewhere, Elsternwick is as good a place as any,” he said.
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