Flash clean-up effort

By CASEY NEILL
TECOMA’S Flash Car Care site was looking a little neater last week following last month’s community call for a tidy-up.
On 24 April the Mail spoke to traders, police, and Lyster Ward councillor Samantha Dunn about the disused premises, which has become home to squatters and graffiti vandals.
They called on 1571 Burwood Highway’s owners to clean up and secure the site, or make use of the prime position that has been vacant for more than five years.
Cr Dunn said Yarra Ranges Council had no power to compel the owners to tidy up, yet sent a letter urging them to do so. It also asked what the aspirations they had for the site and what the council could do to help.
Last week the site had been cleaned from front to back – graffiti remained but weeds and rubble had been removed.
“I was pleasantly surprised by a quick response from the property owner, with contractors on site and a call from the owner to explore options for its redevelopment,” Cr Dunn said.
“I am looking forward to seeing what comes forward to council and how we can help facilitate a positive outcome for all on this key site in Tecoma.”
Piccaninny Recycled owner Karen Rook said the site was “dreadfully run down”.
“I think it’s great that the owner of the property has a conscience and has done the right thing by the community, tidied it up and kept his property rentable or sellable,” she said.