RESIDENTS in one of Bendigo’s oldest neighbourhoods are staging a peaceful protest against modern development in heritage areas. Property owners in Forest Street, Forest Lane, Valentines Street and Barkley Street have posted signs on their properties which state: “We oppose inappropriate development in our heritage neighbourhood”. The move is in response to the City of Greater Bendigo council approving an extension to a property in Forest Street. The proposed extension to the 21.45 square heritage home is a 23.33 square modern glass and steel two-storey structure which the neighbours believe will alter the integrity of the area. The residents recently lost a VCAT appeal against the development. Forest Street resident Denise de Moel said because no one opposed the plans within a set time of the planning notice going up, the permits were allocated. “We acknowledge the fact that no one went to look at the plans but that was because of the council’s wording,” she said. The planning notice described the plans as “Demolition to rear of dwelling and out buildings, extension to dwelling, construction of garage and installation of swimming pool”. “When we went and looked at the notice we weren’t alarmed but we’ve learnt now ... go and have a look no matter how trivial it may seem,” Denise said. Fellow resident Morris Hesse said the group had contacted Sandhurst Ward councillor Wayne Gregson, who was just as disappointed with the plans being approved. “We probably can’t stop this but we can let everyone else in Bendigo know that if you live in a heritage area, don’t let this happen to you,” Morris said. The residents estimate the proposed extension will rise nine metres high, will have a view into neighbouring back yards and block the views which currently extend to the former St Aiden’s Orphanage.
