A planning amendment that allows for a women-only
community care accommodation facility to be built in Mount Duneed will be put
on display for community feedback.
Amendment C401 seeks to pave the way for the
proposed centre on vacant Farming Zoned land at 120 Russells Road, by including
the land in Clause 51.01 “Specific Sites and Exclusions”. The proposal would be subject to detailed
conditions.
Not-for-profit organisation Foundation 61
wants to run the facility for up to eight women to live in at one time,
supported by three staff members.
There’s an unmet demand for such women-only
residential facilities in the Greater Geelong region.
The semi-rural location could boost success
rates for residents, by providing an environment free of distractions.
Community Care Accommodation such
as rehabilitation facilities are not allowed to be built on Farming Zoned land. However, the site in question – once home to a church – is not used for farming
and is surrounded by a recreation reserve.
The facility would be separate
from the current men’s facility run by the same organisation on Williams
Road, Mount Duneed.
Amendment C401 will be exhibited in
October/November 2019,
subject to authorisation from the Minister for Planning.
Councillor Bruce Harwood – Mayor
Foundation 61 is doing great work in our
community tackling the complex issue of drug and alcohol addiction. Residential
services that specifically support women are sorely lacking in our region.The vacant land has great potential to help
vulnerable women recover in a safe and supportive environment, away from
negative distractions.
Councillor Pat Murnane – Kardinia
ward
Unfortunately, the Geelong region does not have enough residential drug
and alcohol rehabilitation facilities to service the high-demand in the
community and the cost is out of reach for most people, therefore treatment is
often not sought.Geelong is fortunate to have Foundation 61 in our region, as it is
offering an affordable option and achieving great outcomes for its guests. The
organisation’s favourable success rate is a result of focusing on reconnecting
people with their families and the community, as well as upskilling individuals
to achieve employment once they are ready to re-join society and give back to
the community.
