Cr Youhorn Chea wants to protect the Springvale Library, Town Hall, council office complex and heritage building from being sold off.By Nathan Johnston
THE CITY of Greater Dandenong has made its strongest suggestion yet that it plans to consolidate its operations in Dandenong.
The council rejected Cr Youhorn Chea’s plan to permanently retain the Springvale Library, the Council office complex and the Springvale Heritage Building at Monday night’s meeting.
Cr Chea could only receive support for his suggestion to put the Springvale Town Hall off limits in future council land sales.
The three remaining properties may now be used as bargaining chips for major projects in the future.
Cr Clare O’Neil said the decision to amend Cr Chea’s motion did not mean a selloff of Springvale assets.
“The council is considering the future of its key land holdings,” Cr O’Neil said.
“There are some exciting things that we can achieve in Springvale. For our officers to come back with the best plans, we need flexibility. It doesn’t mean we want to sell these facilities,” she said.
Only Cr Peter Brown supported Cr Chea’s suggestions.
“How can you attract investors when you sell off the crown jewels,” Cr Brown said.
“To get an area like this in Springvale, for a reasonable price, you’ve got to be dreaming. There’s none for sale.”
Cr Chea said the existing councilowned properties should be retained indefinitely.
“Our facilities in Springvale have almost gone already. These four buildings are the only places we have left,” Cr Chea said.
“If you move the library to the shopping centre, or a place close to the train station, that’s not appropriate. A library is supposed to be a quiet place where you can concentrate.”
His proposal included the council’s provision of ongoing maintenance of the buildings, and a plan to develop the area into a place of education, information and recreation.
Cr Paul Donovan said the council could look to move its Springvale council offices, but retain a strong presence in Springvale with a new multipurpose facility, including the library, a community centre and function centre.
“A joint council facility in Dandenong would save the community money,” Cr Donovan said.
“It would provide better integration between council staff. Cr Chea’s motion prevents the council from doing anything.”
