Burnham Beeches plans close to getting green light

CONTROVERSIAL plans by celebrity chef Shannon Bennett for the historic Burnham Beeches site in the Dandenong Ranges have passed another hurdle, but the development could come at the cost of something synonymous to the location.

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CONTROVERSIAL plans for the historic Burnham Beeches estate are close to getting the green light despite community opposition.

The decision to amend Yarra Ranges Council’s planning scheme and turn the Sherbrooke site into a tourist destination now sits with the council and a final sign off by Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

Shannon Bennett inside the art deco Norris building, which has fallen into disrepair. Picture: David Smith

An independent planning panel, appointed last year by Mr Wynne at the council’s request, ruled on unresolved community concerns, including traffic, bushfire and heritage values, endorsing the plans at a December hearing.

While the panel recommends adopting the planning scheme amendment C142 there are nine beech trees — synonymous with the historic site — that could be felled for road changes.

Bennett and Adam Garrisson bought the site is 2009. Picture: Martin Reddy

Owners of the Sherbrooke estate, celebrity chef Shannon Bennett and developer Adam Garrisson’s plans include removing a cap on patron numbers, turning the Norris building — built in thje 1930s and now in state of disrepair — into a six-star hotel, and adding a microbrewery, shop and new restaurant inside the existing Piggery Cafe.

The pair, who bought the property in 2009, want to restore the 1930s art deco Norris building which has fallen into disrepair.

But members of the Burnham Beeches Community Watch Facebook page hit out at the panel’s recommendations.

June Brandon said it would be a “disgrace” if the tree removal went ahead.

“I believe several of them are of a rare species,” Ms Brandon said.

Vicki Hennes said she was “so disappointed” by the outcome.

“I wonder if those approving this even know the area at all. It is going to have a massive impact on my tiny little town,” Ms Hennes said.

Yarra Ranges social and economic development director Ali Wastie said the council was working to schedule a hearing for the proposal at a future council meeting.