By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
GREATER Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti has partially backed a proposed parkland gateway into Dandenong on Cheltenham Road.
The council is set to vote on whether to tear up a 2002 agreement with Places Victoria to develop the vacant land on the road’s northern side opposite the under-construction nine-storey Mosaic Apartments due to “non completion”.
The deed’s sunset date is 15 October.
It had been earmarked for high-density development, including high-rise apartments and commercial uses, as well as dedicated open space in the council’s master plan.
Cr Memeti, who estimated the spacious site was worth $8 million, said there was room for both a park as well as multi-level apartments
“That’s my preference. The council has to still vote on whether to take the land back (from Places Victoria).”
He said the land could be used as a temporary car park for railway commuters in the meantime.
“We need that extra parking. We want to encourage people to use public transport so a car park would be a great option for, say, the next five years.”
Last month councillor Peter Brown proposed a tree-lined, landscaped entry point on the spacious lot – reminiscent of St Kilda Road’s boulevard.
He said it would be more appealing than a “high-rise wind tunnel” if the council’s original plan proceeded.
Cr Brown said it would be a positive step if the land’s destiny reverted to the council’s hands for “proper use”.
“My view is there’s an increasing view among councillors to supporting (the gateway proposal).
“I think Places Victoria has found there was enough unsold land in Dandenong without adding to it.”
Places Victoria land development and housing manager Joanne Wandel said the land at the northern end of the Metro 3175 estate had always been owned by the council.
“The vision for the site is for high density mixed use development,” she said.
