Woolworths’ plan to build a supermarket complex in Strathdale was rejected at Tuesday night’s council meeting because it did not fit in with the council’s policy to conserve built and natural heritage.

“It’s about respecting the community,” Councillor James Reade said.

The changes requested by Woolworths included raising the height of the supermarket by 1.4 metres and the height of retaining walls on Condon Street, and reducing the amount of shops adjoining the supermarket.

It was yet another setback in the redevelopment, which was first lodged with the council in September 2007. 

Woolworths bought the land in 2010 after negotiations with the previous owners and the council fell through.

Mediation for the project will be held on September 14 and a hearing with VCAT is scheduled for late November.

Bunnings fared better at the council meeting, with an application to extend its Kangaroo Flat warehouse accepted.

Native vegetation and a reduction in bicycle facilities will make way for the nearly 5000-metre-square increase in size. 

Councillor Rod Fyffe opposed the application because of the increase in the height of the wall along High Street.

“Good design is important to our community,” he said. “Five metres of concrete wall is not good enough.”

Councillor Rod Campbell said the increase in size was acceptable due to its situation.

“People would normally expect this kind of development,” he said