By MELISSA MEEHAN
THERE’S little hope of a neighbourhood dispute of eight years ending as plans to extend the number of visitors and operating hours of a Buddhist temple in Emerald.
Neighbours of the temple are up in arms about the newest application.
Cardinia Shire Council this week confirming the application had been submitted to the council, with community feedback already closed.
Three direct neighbours met with the Mail last week, commenting that they were concerned about the application to increase numbers and opening hours.
“When it first opened we were concerned in terms of traffic, but to extend this now – four fold, it’s just so upsetting for us all,” one neighbour said.
“They already have more than what they are allowed, and to increase that – how does the council police it?” another asked.
Cardinia shire’s manager development services Brett Jackson said the temple is currently restricted to 30 patrons and operates between 9am and 4pm on Saturdays.
“Council has received an application to extend the number of patrons permitted on site to 123 people, and to increase the hours of operation from 8am to 5pm on Saturdays,” Mr Jackson said.
It has not yet been determined if or when this application will be heard at a council meeting.
