Bridge restoration decision wrong
Dear Editor,
I was shocked to hear of the decision of Mitchell Shire councillors to cancel the contract to restore the Old Goulburn River Bridge at Seymour.
This has been an ongoing project for more than 25 years. In the past, the shire had always consulted with the community about the bridge’s restoration and one petition, signed by about 2000 people, was presented to the shire, supporting the restoration.
However, on this occasion, there has been no community consultation. I believe that not once did any of the new councillors bother to ask members of the Friends of the Bridge for information about the bridge, or the ongoing attempts to have it restored.
A few years ago, tenders were called for the restoration. With the combined funds of the Friends of the Bridge and grants that were provided by the Federal and State Governments, the shire was only $30,000 short of being able to complete the works. Unfortunately, the grant money had to be returned because the work was not done.
We have been promised time and time again by the shire that this restoration work would take place. We were given assurances that parts of the bridge that were removed so that the pylons could be stabilised were stored for use in restoration works. When the steel girders were removed, it was said that they would be sold, and the proceeds of the sale would go to bridge reconstruction. These have turned into empty promises.
Many people are under the misapprehension that the money will now be spent on roads or other projects. I understand that this is incorrect as the loan was for the bridge’s restoration only.
I have lost count of the number of times I have spoken to new councillors on behalf of the Seymour Community in my role as chairman of the Friends of the Bridge, a committee originally formed by the shire itself. The councillors in the south ward have nearly always opposed restoration as it is money being spent in Seymour rather than Wallan, but generally speaking, they have listened to views from the north. No new councillor has spoken to me about this proposed decision, nor, I believe, to any other member regarding the decision.
I am very concerned that community consultation is now something of the past.I, and many others, are very disappointed.
John Jennings OAM
ARTC forcing people out of their homes
Dear Editor,
My friend is from Broadford and has been offered an amount of money [for their home] that would not even get them another home. If they don’t accept, ARTC will go to the government and acquire their home and force the family out. This home has been in the family for decades. This has really been devastating for my friend, and has put them under a lot of stress and really affected their mental health. Why and how is this even legal, that companies like ARTC can just come in and take people’s homes?
Anonymous
Car park restrictions ridiculous
Dear Editor,
I am writing to formally express my frustration with the restrictive two-hour parking limit in the shopping centre car parks within the City of Whittlesea. Recently, I was issued a fine for exceeding the two-hour limit while shopping at Epping Plaza, and I find this policy both unreasonable and unfair—particularly given that this centre serves not only local residents but also those from regional areas who travel significant distances to shop.
It is unrealistic to expect customers to complete their shopping, enjoy a meal, or attend necessary appointments within such a short timeframe. Unlike inner-city locations where quick turnover is necessary, shopping centres in the northern suburbs cater to a broader community, many of whom require longer parking durations. This policy ultimately penalises customers who are supporting local businesses and spending money in the area.
I urge the council to review this parking restriction and consider extending the limit or providing an option for longer stays, particularly for those who have valid reasons for extended visits. It is frustrating and unfair that genuine shoppers are fined simply for taking the time to shop and engage with local businesses.
I would appreciate a response addressing my concerns and whether the council intends to review this policy.
Tracey Breed
Two birds, one stone
Dear Editor,
Why doesn’t local laws go for a drive and look into breaches to planning permits? Council are low on funds, they’re scratching for money for roads, so why not go out and enforce local planning permit breaches like other shires do? Teach the people who are doing the subdivisions and developments that you have to play by the rules on your planning permit. Then it stops us getting the cowboy developers, because they learn they are going to be fined.
It also gets the shire’s revenue up, from the people doing the subdivision that aren’t following the permit conditions (and the cowboy development in the shire). The City of Casey are so hot on subdivisions and planning permits, if you do anything wrong they are there the next day! I understand they give a warning and a fix it in 14 days say for a first time, but on environmental stuff and fire safety issues it should be enforced fast.
Anonymous
