New council briefed on land

LAND that was to be the site of the new Cardinia Shire office complex in Pakenham was the focus of council talks last week.
Council chief executive Don Welsh on Friday provided a detailed report about the current status of the land bounded by Henry Street, John Street, Treloar Land and Cook Drive.
Ranges Ward councillor Ed Chatwin had requested the report.
The future use of the land has been the subject of regular speculation since the withdrawal in July of project partner Southern Health sank the council’s plans for a one-stop shop incorporating shire, health and library services.
Mr Welsh made the presentation at a closed meeting of the council.
Mayor Bill Ronald said the issues discussed were of a confidential nature but expected the public to be informed of what was happening at the site early in the new year.
Speaking in support of his request at the council’s 12 December meeting, Cr Chatwin said he was keen to receive a progress report.
“Over the last two years there has been a great deal of comment out in the community and now I’m a new councillor I need to get up to date and authentic information we can use to communicate with the electorate,” Cr Chatwin said.
Cr Brett Owen supported the move, saying people really wanted to know the council’s plans for the land.
Council colleagues agreed a report would be valuable but were concerned over the timeframe given to the CEO.
Cr Graeme Legge said a briefing on the issue had already been scheduled for February.
He said such a report could take a considerable amount of time, but moves to delay the briefing were quashed when the issue was put to the vote.