UPDATE: Casey councillors have officially approved a controversial decision to reduce parking spaces at the proposed Cranbourne Community Hub by an alarming 57%. The vote, which took place on December 9, 2023, passed with an 11-1 majority, marking a pivotal moment for the newly elected council as they addressed what they termed as the “regional significance” of the development.
The plan involves constructing a new three-storey Hub at 1-3 Lyall Street, but the permit allows only 19 parking spaces, significantly down from the required 45 spaces. This decision has sparked immediate concern among community members and local officials regarding accessibility and the overall impact on the surrounding area.
City of Casey Manager of Planning & Building, Tania Asper, presented multiple technical assessments at the meeting, asserting that while the shortfall would affect nearby streets, overflow parking could be accommodated within the precinct. She highlighted that the site’s proximity to shops, services, schools, and public transport would facilitate visitor access. “The site is close to shops, services, schools, and public transport, making it easy for visitors to walk or use public transport,” Asper stated.
However, not all councillors agree with this assessment. Cr Gary Rowe, who initiated the motion, passionately advocated for the project, emphasizing its long-overdue significance to the community. He expressed emotional sentiments about Cranbourne’s need for such a vital asset. “Cranbourne has been without a lot of assets being built… There’s been a lack of something special,” he said, referring to the Hub as “iconic.”
Conversely, Deputy Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther voiced her strong opposition, pointing out that community feedback indicates most residents plan to drive to the Hub. “We are seeking to reduce this minimum recommended parking number by 57%—not five or ten percent, but 57%,” she cautioned, highlighting the challenges faced by residents who may not have alternative transport options.
The Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) also raised alarms ahead of the vote, warning that cutting on-site parking could undermine access to essential services nearby. President Anthony Tassone stressed the impact on vulnerable populations who rely on convenient parking near medical facilities. “These clinics support many clients who are older, unwell or vulnerable and rely on being able to park close by,” he remarked.
As the community grapples with these developments, the council has committed to investigating pedestrian connectivity and other amenity upgrades around the Hub. If the parking permit is finalized, it will include 10 secured after-hours spaces, 7 shared spaces, and 2 all-ability parking spaces, which will be open to the public during business hours but reserved for staff after hours.
The Cranbourne Community Hub is expected to become a central resource, housing a library, youth services, community spaces, and offices, serving up to 86 patrons at a time along with 58 staff members. The implications of this decision are immediate and far-reaching, raising questions about accessibility and the future of community services in Cranbourne.
As this story develops, community members are urged to stay informed and engage in discussions about the Hub’s impact on their daily lives. The council’s next steps will be critical in determining how well they can address the community’s needs while moving forward with this ambitious project.
