Kingborough councillors condemn ‘lack of compassion’ over social housing proposal

Councillors have hit out at “vile and disturbing” comments from the community in relation to a proposed affordable housing development.

Presentation Sisters congregation leader Sister Gabrielle Morgan at the Blackmans Bay site. Picture: MATT THOMPSON

KINGBOROUGH councillors have roundly condemned “vile and disturbing” comments from the community in relation to proposed affordable housing for a Blackmans Bay site.

The council received more than 50 objections against initiating an amendment to its planning scheme for a coastal parcel of land owned by the Tasmanian Presentation Sisters.

The Sisters plan to develop the land into a mix of affordable and social housing.

CONCERNS RAISED OVER AFFORDABLE HOUSING ESTATE

RESIDENTS TO FIGHT HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

PRIME LAND EARMARKED FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The council voted on Monday night 6-2 to recommend the Tasmanian Planning Commission approve the amendment.

Concerns raised by Kingborough residents include a lack of public consultation, minimal concern given to the character and appeal of the area and increased traffic.

There were also complaints made that affordable housing was not suitable for the location and the potential negative effect on property prices in surrounding areas.

Cr Paula Wriedt said she had heard “vile and disturbing comments” about people on low incomes.

“I am ashamed of some of the comments that have been made by people about those who require affordable housing — I thought we lived in a much more inclusive community in that,” she said.

Deputy Mayor Jo Westwood said she had been disappointed by the community’s “lack of compassion”.

“Housing affordability doesn’t necessarily mean people doing burn outs and leaving needles on our beaches,” she said.

“There are people who are victims of domestic violence and people who don’t have a roof over their head for many different reasons.”

The amendment will now be considered by the TPC, which must make a decision within three months of receiving the council’s report.