By Nicole Precel
THE fate of Nelson Place hangs in the balance as a multi-storey development at the former Port Phillip Woollen Mills site could be one step closer.
Planning Minister Justin Madden released the terms of reference for the advisory committee last Friday.
John Keaney is chairing the committee, alongside Ann Keddie, who are both Priority Development Panel Members from the Department of Planning and Community Development. Bob Evans is also on the committee.
The advisory committee would consider a range of issues including appropriate heights, urban design, traffic management, heritage asset protection and acoustics.
Evolve Development had proposed a redevelopment of the woollen mills for four towers of up to 13 storeys or 46.5 metres.
In March, Mr Madden pushed through the rezoning of the site to a residential one zone, claiming Hobsons Bay City Council had taken too long to make a decision, which the council strongly denied.
Save Williamstown was recently alarmed after discovering a map on the government’s Land Data website and the Urban Development Program Annual Report 2009 that included Cecil St heritage properties and Ann St properties in the major residential redevelopment sites category.
But a State Government spokesman said the inclusion of these properties was an error and that they would not be included in redevelopment plans.
Save Williamstown spokesman Godfrey Moase said he also questioned why the National Trust was not included in the terms of reference as eligible to make a submission and be heard.
But the National Trust conservation manager Paul Roser said he hoped it would be included and able to make a submission under the community and interest groups section.
Mr Madden said he had consulted with Hobsons Bay City Council to ensure the process was fair, efficient and thorough.
“It is crucial that we provide certainty to the community, council and the proponent on the future of the site,” he said.
The independent advisory committee will hear submissions from adjoining landowners and the council and must submit its report within eight weeks of the hearing.
Save Williamstown are calling on residents to send submissions to the advisory committee and to the group to oppose the development.
The group will hold a meeting this Sunday at 4pm at the Pirates Tavern, Seaworks in Nelson Place, Williamstown.
