THE fight over the controversial Aspinall Street subdivision is continuing, with residents taking their concerns to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
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Members of the Aspinall Street Action Group say they are confident they have a strong case to put to VCAT.
Group spokeswoman Fiona Dangerfield said there was a misconception that the council’s decision only affected residents in Golden Square.
“This decision affects the whole of Bendigo,” she said.
“It sets a dangerous precedent for other vegetated areas across Bendigo.
“By this action, the council is showing the people of Bendigo that it does not value its natural heritage within the urban area.”
Ms Dangerfield said the group had a petition with more than 400 signatures supporting the preservation of the bushland.
“We want all people interested in saving this area, and ultimately other similar areas within Bendigo, to support us in our appeal.”
Bendigo Mayor Rod Campbell said he was confident the council’s decision would stand up at VCAT.
“The council has gone with the recommendation put to it by council officers,” he said.“It’s residential land with a vegetation overlay.
“I felt the conditions put on the planning permit were appropriate to the recommendation.
“Most people understand this quite clearly.”
Last week the council approved the 69-lot subdivision and the removal of native vegetation at the Catholic Church-owned land at 134-166 Aspinall Street, Golden Square.
Councillor Lisa Ruffell was excused from the vote because of a declared conflict of interest and the mayor used his casting vote to approve the application.
The application to create 78 lots was lodged with the City of Greater Bendigo on November 3, 2008, but the number of lots was revised several times.
