CITY of Greater Bendigo councillors will this week vote on a landmark agenda, with key planning proposals, the possibility of free Wi-Fi in central Bendigo, and the Regent Park Estate controversy all up for discussion.
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The mosque facility, planned for Rohs Road in East Bendigo and funded by the Australian Islamic Mission, has received 254 objections, with 67 per cent based on concern over the influence of Islam.
Council officers have recommended that councillors approve the mosque, saying the proposal met the requirements of the planning scheme.
A 15-lot sub-division and construction of 15 dwellings at Curtin Street is also up for debate.
There is evidence to suggest the site, which is 3165 metres squared, has been used for forestry purposes since 1911.
"Development sites of this size in the urban area are limited in number... Therefore when they do come up for redevelopment it is vital they are used in an efficient manner," the council report states.
There has been 82 objections on the grounds of neighborhood character, traffic and parking issues, residential amenity and impact on surrounding infrastructure.
The council has recommended councillors approve the development.
A report states that the development will provide much-needed housing in an appropriate urban area.
Regent Park Estate residents have also called for the City of Greater Bendigo to assume responsibility for the development and maintenance of the park, following more than a decade of "broken promises" by the developer.
Almost 100 residents have signed a petition calling on the council to push forward with development of a recreation reserve, promised to residents in 2001.
Development sites of this size in the urban area are limited in number.
The council said that Regent Park Estate did not meet the objectives of the council's Play Space Strategy but that a proposed recreation reserve planned for Strathfieldsaye, only 750 metres away, would help service current demand.
Councillors will also consider providing access to city-owned infrastructure, including light poles and public buildings, to enable the rapid roll out of free Wi-Fi in central Bendigo.
The request by the state government will be considered at Wednesday’s meeting and if supported will boost central Bendigo’s overall appeal by providing enhanced educational, entrepreneurial and tourism opportunities for students, visitors and businesses.
A report to be considered by council welcomes the state government initiative and encourages council to agree to the request for access to city-owned infrastructure.
The council meeting will be held at Bendigo Town Hall from 6pm on Wednesday.