The Allan Government has been called on to work collaboratively with the San Remo community over the proposed location of the town’s new childcare centre.
Raising the dispute in state parliament, The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, said locals are opposed to the Shetland Heights Road site due to its unsuitability and safety issues.
“There are more than 70 objectors to the location adopted by Labor, a clear indication, this is the wrong decision,” Ms Bath said.
“With community feedback overwhelmingly negative, the Allan Government has a responsibility to address legitimate concerns instead of ploughing ahead.”
Ms Bath said Shetland Heights Road is a busy thoroughfare and residents have raised well documented safety and parking issues that cannot simply be dismissed.
“San Remo urgently needs a childcare centre to support working families, but it must be located where it best meets community needs, not where it simply ticks government boxes.
“Labor has made a captain’s call in this instance, bypassing any form of genuine community consultation.
“Families are rightly incensed that the school and preschool precinct where suitable land exists, has been overlooked.
“In announcing the childcare centre, Labor also ignored Bass Coast Council’s proposal supporting an integrated education precinct with the primary school and preschool.
“Co‑locating education facilities just makes sense, it reduces travel pressures on working parents and supports smoother transitions for young children as they progress through their early years education.”
Ms Bath said she is calling on the Allan Government to “put on the brakes” and work collaboratively with locals to ensure the new childcare centre delivers the best outcomes for San Remo.
The Minister’s response is due 1 April.
