Mount Alexander Shire Council staff have recommended a bid for a new gaming venue in Castlemaine be rejected. Picture: File
A PLANNING application for 65 poker machines in Castlemaine should be denied, according to Mount Alexander Shire Council staff.
Staff have recommended the development be refused due to a lack of car parking and the “detrimental social and economic impact” it would have.
Councillors will vote on the permit next Tuesday.
A report notes there has been 544 objections to the application and 22 submissions in support.
Mount Alexander Shire Council's stoush with the Maryborough Highland Society over its proposal for a new gaming venue, featuring 65 machines, at a disused railway shed cost close to $200,000 in legal fees last year.
Strong local opposition to the proposal sent the council back to VCAT in December last year, with a decision expected mid-February.
Maryborough Highland Society general manager Malcolm Blandthorn said last month he was "quietly confident" VCAT would dismiss the appeal.
Mr Blandthorn also maintains the venture would generate jobs and give profits back to the community.