AFTER all the tumult and the shouting about Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay upgrades, it’s now up to the affected ratepayers to make the final decision.
Councillors at Wednesday’s meeting unanimously supported the declaration of a special charge scheme for the works, estimated to cost $35 million.
Mayor Cr Michael Whelan said formally starting the process did not mean it will go ahead. “This process is about giving residents as much information as possible, so they can make a decision on whether they support the project,” he said.
The preferred concept design was Option 1 (with modifications), which was the lowest cost option. It includes road sealing, kerb and channelling, underground drainage, meandering footpaths on only the main connector roads, road narrowings to slow traffic and vegetated swale drains at selected locations.
Councillors at Wednesday’s meeting unanimously supported the declaration of a special charge scheme for the works, estimated to cost $35 million.
Mayor Cr Michael Whelan said formally starting the process did not mean it will go ahead. “This process is about giving residents as much information as possible, so they can make a decision on whether they support the project,” he said.
The preferred concept design was Option 1 (with modifications), which was the lowest cost option. It includes road sealing, kerb and channelling, underground drainage, meandering footpaths on only the main connector roads, road narrowings to slow traffic and vegetated swale drains at selected locations.
The contribution for each individual property is estimated to be in the order of $5,170 up to $77,857 depending on lot size, frontage and other various discounts applied. The average cost per property is $25,616 per property, which can be paid as a lump sum or via a payment plan over 10 years. There are special plans for those experiencing financial hardship.
If the project proceeds, the council will contribute $8,383,983 over a three-year construction period.
At Wednesday’s council meeting, several councillors stressed that the submission process was confidential and homeowners should not be intimidated by pressure groups. Cr David Rooks said they should talk to family and trusted friends.
Cr Clare Le Serve compared it with the contentious Pioneer Bay upgrade, which she said had transformed the hamlet and was now widely supported.
Cr Whelan said the Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay community had identified a number of significant road issues, including concerns with drainage, dust generated from unsealed roads, traffic safety issues and a need for safe pedestrian access through the estate.”
“The plan was developed following extensive community engagement and reflects Council's Urban Road and Drainage Improvement Policy, which identified the Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay estates as the highest priority areas for possible infrastructure upgrades within the Shire.”
Letters outlining the proposed costs and further details about the next steps will be sent to all residents in the affected area. Submissions and objections must be received in writing by the council by October 11. Details at engage.basscoast.vic.gov.au/surfbeachroads
If more than half of property owners lodge objections to the proposed scheme, then, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989, the project cannot proceed. If less than half object, the council will decide on whether to proceed with the scheme.
Submitters and objectors will be advised of the time and date of a committee of council meeting should they wish to have their submission and/or objection heard.
If the Special Charge Scheme is approved, construction is expected to start in 2025-26.
If the project proceeds, the council will contribute $8,383,983 over a three-year construction period.
At Wednesday’s council meeting, several councillors stressed that the submission process was confidential and homeowners should not be intimidated by pressure groups. Cr David Rooks said they should talk to family and trusted friends.
Cr Clare Le Serve compared it with the contentious Pioneer Bay upgrade, which she said had transformed the hamlet and was now widely supported.
Cr Whelan said the Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay community had identified a number of significant road issues, including concerns with drainage, dust generated from unsealed roads, traffic safety issues and a need for safe pedestrian access through the estate.”
“The plan was developed following extensive community engagement and reflects Council's Urban Road and Drainage Improvement Policy, which identified the Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay estates as the highest priority areas for possible infrastructure upgrades within the Shire.”
Letters outlining the proposed costs and further details about the next steps will be sent to all residents in the affected area. Submissions and objections must be received in writing by the council by October 11. Details at engage.basscoast.vic.gov.au/surfbeachroads
If more than half of property owners lodge objections to the proposed scheme, then, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989, the project cannot proceed. If less than half object, the council will decide on whether to proceed with the scheme.
Submitters and objectors will be advised of the time and date of a committee of council meeting should they wish to have their submission and/or objection heard.
If the Special Charge Scheme is approved, construction is expected to start in 2025-26.