From left, Greater Dandenong cultural facilities director Paul Streefkerk, Ramada Encore sales and marketing executive Nicole Ellen, Dandenong Ranges basketballer Emily McInerney, Drum Theatre marketing manager Jade Webber, Ramada Encore general manager Ed Davis, VicUrban chief operating officer Mark Allan and Volleyball Victoria communications and marketing manager Jacqui Gonsal.By Shaun Inguanzo
VICURBAN has said it will forcefully acquire business properties needed to complete the revitalisation of central Dandenong even if current owners don’t want to sell.
Speaking at a business breakfast last week at Dandenong’s Ramada Encore Hotel, VicUrban chief operating officer Mark Allan said the large renewal project would warrant the acquisition of currently-occupied land.
But he said the challenge facing VicUrban would be getting current owners to hand over the land for the right price.
“It is an issue for us,” Mr Allan said.
However, Mr Allan said if negotiations failed, VicUrban would use its statutory powers to acquire the land.
“We’ve spoken to the land owners already…we would use compulsory acquisition as a last resort,” he said.
“The revitalisation is a heavy commitment on the part of the State Government, compulsory acquisition will not be used lightly, but if the need be it will be something we need to do.”
The Ramada Encore breakfast was a chance for local businesses to be briefed on VicUrban’s plans, and also hear how they could use the Drum Theatre and Ramada Encore to their benefit.
Other guest speakers included the City of Greater Dandenong’s cultural facilities director Paul Streefkerk and Dandenong Rangers women’s basketballer Emily McInerney.
The hotel has several conference rooms and 108 guest rooms, and contains a business centre with Internet access and a currency exchange service.
