By Parker McKenzie
When residents of Belgrave became aware of potential tree-felling at the Old Belgrave Motors Site — recently the focus of a VCAT hearing surrounding its development — they quickly raised concern and reported it to Yarra Ranges Council.
The Star Mail can confirm the works were exempt from planning approval and did not involve the felling of trees.
Yarra Ranges Council Director of Planning, Design and Development Nathan Islip said the council recently received reports of vegetation removals at the former Belgrave Motors site.
“Our Planning Compliance Team investigated and found that all vegetation removed was exempt from requiring planning approval,” he said.
“This is because the vegetation consisted of weed species and other vegetation within 2 metres of legally existing buildings, including fences on property boundaries.”
The Old Belgrave Motors site, located at 2-14 Monbulk Road, was earmarked by Pulitano Properties for the development of a supermarket, shops, café, offices and a childcare centre.
After local opposition to the plans for a five-storey complex, Yarra Ranges Council rejected the planning proposal. Pulitano Properties appealed to VCAT, however, the refusal was upheld in January 2022 after a 16-day tribunal hearing resolved the five-year battle.
“Further works are expected on 7 and 8 March to continue this removal, and we will continue to monitor the site and liaise with contractors, to ensure the works continue to stay within the permissible limits of the planning scheme.” Mr Islip said.
