The Daylesford community has raised concerns for the future of the town’s former IGA building after its recent sale.
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Fairfax Media understands the building, on the corner of Vincent and Albert streets, was sold privately.
Daylesford Biggin and Scott director Michael De Vincentis confirmed the sale was not conducted by a Daylesford real estate agent.
The building, in a prime position on Daylesford’s main street, has sat vacant since September 2014.
The local IGA announced it was forced to close after parts of the building were condemned by Hepburn Shire Council.
Council’s planning manager Justin Fiddes said council issued a notice on the property in May 2016 due to the danger the wall on the car park side of the building could collapse.
Following the notice, the former building owner installed a safety barrier to stop public access to the car park.
Mr Fiddes said the barrier must remain in place and the building must not be occupied until repairs were made to council satisfaction.
“Safety is a high priority for Council. Council will continue to monitor the state of the building to ensure ongoing safety measures are in place,” Mr Fiddes said.
Before the sale of the former IGA site, Hepburn Shire councillor Kate Redwood said it was unfortunate the building had been in disrepair for such a long time.
“It would be fantastic to have the IGA there up and running and I know people really do miss it,” Cr Redwood said.
“I think people would be very keen to have an independent supermarket available.”
Many Daylesford residents shared their desire for another local supermarket, while some had visions for other uses of the site before knowledge of the site’s sale.
Comments on the Daylesford Community Grapevine Noticeboard Facebook page expressed a variety of ideas.
Tanya McLeod wrote “we want another IGA sooner rather than later”.
Jessica Newton said “a country target would be amazing in this town”.
Doug Andrews shared the idea of demolishing the former IGA building and turning the site into a car park.
“The town centre desperately needs it! May well be a lot cheaper to knock the building down as opposed to trying to repair it,” Mr Andrews commented.
Joan Field wrote “sadly lacking in this town is affordable clothing for all especially children and babies!”.
Mr Fiddes said outstanding safety issues would have to be resolved.
Council involvement is limited to the safety of the building.
No planning applications for the site can be approved by the council until the building is repaired to council satisfaction.