Refused a Change of Use Permit

Mark's Country Place recognises and celebrates today, December 3, as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

We have learned that the Macedon Ranges Shire Council has taken the advice of the Planning Department and will be refusing us a Change of Use Permit. We feel somewhat aggrieved that during the past 18 months of producing numerous reports and jumping through hoops at the behest of the Planning Department, this has been their decision. It has also become clear that the Planning Department really does not understand what we are trying to achieve.

We have tried to meet with them on more than one occasion in an attempt to explain more fully our intent and reason in wanting to create this garden. They have neither agreed to a meeting, nor have they ever asked us any questions or asked for clarification. The councilors agreed to uphold the Planning Department recommendations without asking us any questions or giving us an opportunity to state our case. We feel disappointed not to have been given due process and a fair hearing.

Because this block of land is designated Farm Zone, the Planning Department applied the "rule book" and decided that a garden, primarily created for people with disabilities, is not a suitable use of agricultural land. This despite the fact that the land has remained unsold for several years prior to us purchasing the property, due to the difficulty of putting it to use as a small acreage (10 acres/4.5 hectares) farming concern.

Our only recourse now is to appeal through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, otherwise known as VCAT. This will mean that Mark's Country Place will need to retain a Principal Town Planner and Land Use Specialist to represent MCP at VCAT. We will also be required to pay VCAT fees. These expenses will eat into funds that otherwise should be invested, through the charity, directly into developing the garden for the benefit of the disability community.

Despite our frustration, we continue to be fortified and encouraged by all our friends, acquaintances and supporters. We are very thankful and heartened by your support and although we maybe down, we are definitely not out!

Dream, Struggle, VICTORY!!

Comments

timsteambiz ~ Dec 3, 2021

Keep fighting the great cause, we are 100% behind you

Barbara Humphreys ~ Dec 3, 2021

Dream, dream, Dream, Struggle, struggle… Victory, Victory!!

You will get there! Common sense is not so common these days, but you will overcome and this will get to fruition!

Alison and Kev ~ Dec 6, 2021

Hi, another big disappointment for you but I’m sure you will continue fighting and find support from all of those who understand the importance of this project. Stay strong!

Ruth Weatherlake ~ Dec 7, 2021

So sorry that your ‘change of use’ application has been knocked back, and apparently without due consideration. Hope and pray that this decision changes with minimum further disruption.