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PLANNING Minister Justin Madden has approved a Sunbury winery’s bid for a function centre and restaurant in the Green Wedge.
Hume councillor Jack Ogilvie said the decision to allow the expansion at the Pitruzzello Estate could pave the way for other properties to apply to extend the uses of the Green Wedge.
“Because it’s under the required 200 acres (81ha), it has set a bit of a precedent but it’s a good precedent,” Cr Ogilvie said.
“It’s a quirk in the planning scheme that didn’t allow him to build a restaurant, we wanted to support it but the planning scheme wouldn’t allow us to.”
Cr Ogilvie said while he was not against the concept of the Green Wedge, those on the land had to be able to make a living.
“The challenge for us is what can be done in the Green Wedge that’s sustainable,” he said.
Last week, Mr Madden amended the Hume Planning Scheme, with conditions, to allow Pitruzzello Estate to expand into a regional tourist facility.
The amendment will allow for a 340-seat restaurant, a function centre with art gallery and 24 units for accommodation.
“Amendment C144 will facilitate a significant investment in Sunbury and surrounding areas by creating jobs, complementing the Green Wedge and adding to the viability of the existing agricultural uses,” Mr Madden said.
“Hume City Council estimates the new development will boost local tourism, generate 40 direct jobs and 65 indirect jobs during construction and 40 direct jobs and 52 indirect jobs when operating.”
Pitruzzello Estate general manager Silvio Pitruzzello said his family was pleased with the decision and planning works were already under way to have the restaurant opened by early next year with the other aspects to follow.
“In the Sunbury area there’s nothing like that out here,” Mr Pitruzzello said.
“It’s going to create jobs and bring tourism to the area.”
Comment: Green wedges can be modified!
Hume councillor Jack Ogilvie said the decision to allow the expansion at the Pitruzzello Estate could pave the way for other properties to apply to extend the uses of the Green Wedge.
“Because it’s under the required 200 acres (81ha), it has set a bit of a precedent but it’s a good precedent,” Cr Ogilvie said.
“It’s a quirk in the planning scheme that didn’t allow him to build a restaurant, we wanted to support it but the planning scheme wouldn’t allow us to.”
Cr Ogilvie said while he was not against the concept of the Green Wedge, those on the land had to be able to make a living.
“The challenge for us is what can be done in the Green Wedge that’s sustainable,” he said.
Last week, Mr Madden amended the Hume Planning Scheme, with conditions, to allow Pitruzzello Estate to expand into a regional tourist facility.
The amendment will allow for a 340-seat restaurant, a function centre with art gallery and 24 units for accommodation.
“Amendment C144 will facilitate a significant investment in Sunbury and surrounding areas by creating jobs, complementing the Green Wedge and adding to the viability of the existing agricultural uses,” Mr Madden said.
“Hume City Council estimates the new development will boost local tourism, generate 40 direct jobs and 65 indirect jobs during construction and 40 direct jobs and 52 indirect jobs when operating.”
Pitruzzello Estate general manager Silvio Pitruzzello said his family was pleased with the decision and planning works were already under way to have the restaurant opened by early next year with the other aspects to follow.
“In the Sunbury area there’s nothing like that out here,” Mr Pitruzzello said.
“It’s going to create jobs and bring tourism to the area.”
Comment: Green wedges can be modified!
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