Montmorency-Eltham RSL backs war memorial redevelopment
The Montmorency-Eltham RSL sub-branch will not oppose the proposed redevelopment of the Eltham War Memorial buildings complex.
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The Montmorency-Eltham RSL sub-branch will not oppose the proposed redevelopment of the Eltham War Memorial buildings complex.
Sub-branch president Duncan Duke said initially that he was concerned about the impact of the redevelopment on the war memorial and cenotaph area.
However, Mr Duke said the RSL had since been assured by Nillumbik Council they would be consulted about any such changes, and he could see no problem with the development proposed.
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“The buildings have served their purpose,” he said. “They really need upgrading to be brought into (line with) current standards.”
Mr Duke said community groups protesting about the redevelopment had incorrectly claimed the RSL supported their views.
“They’re trying to align the RSL as being opposed to the redevelopment,” he said. “We (are not) opposed to the redevelopment of buildings that are not fit for the purpose.”
The council-owned sites consist of the former Eltham Shire offices (vacant since 1996) and the Eltham War Memorial buildings complex.
Former Nillumbik councillor and mayor Helen Coleman — a vocal redevelopment opponent — said the buildings had a rich history and were an important part of the community.
She said more than 2000 people had signed a handwritten petition to say they didn’t want the war memorial buildings destroyed, while almost 800 had signed a change.org petition.
“(The RSL) are entitled to their view, but the broader community … don’t want those buildings demolished,” Ms Coleman said.
Council spokesman Licardo Prince said it had not made any decisions beyond calling for proposals to consider how the sites could be developed to deliver broader community objectives.
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