Tyabb Airfield VCAT hearing to begin tomorrow

MPSLogo_News.jpg

A Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hearing aimed at ensuring an agreed co-existence between Tyabb Airfield and the surrounding community is due to begin on Friday, 14 August 2020.

In anticipation of the hearing, and in fulfillment of a Notice of Motion by Watson ward Councillor Julie Morris, Council has now made public a summary of Council’s position on the three key planning permits relating to Tyabb Airfield.

Mornington Peninsula Mayor Sam Hearn said, “Tyabb Airfield is a terrific asset to the region and we all want to see it thrive while also operating in a manner that protects the amenity of the surrounding township”.

“In order to place the airfield on a stable legal footing going forward, it’s crucial we get an independent ruling from VCAT on the conditions for the current and future operation of the airfield,” he said.

“It is also crucial we amend our planning scheme to clarify a number of zoning matters to allow for the site to be operated lawfully as an airfield. We will then work with the Peninsula Aero Club and local residents on a sensible master plan to provide certainty for the airfield while also protecting the area’s amenity.”

Cr Morris said: “I’m delighted that after many years of confusion, misunderstandings and uncertainty, we are closer than ever to resolving this issue”.

“Tyabb Airfield is an important local employer and contributes significantly to our local community. The Council is in complete support of its continued existence but we need to ensure that current and future land uses operate lawfully under the Planning Scheme.”

“Ultimately, what we are doing is in the best interests of both the aero club and the surrounding community.”

The VCAT matter has been listed to commence at a practice day hearing on 14 August 2020, a full day compulsory conference on 26 October 2020 and a 5-day hearing commencing on 12 April 2021.

Council’s position statement on the three key planning permits relating to the airfield is available on the Shire’s website at: mornpen.vic.gov.au/tyabbairfield

/Public Release. View in full here.