Tribunal dismisses Huntly childcare appeal; fire evacuation plan lacks detail
The tribunal found the backers gave too little information on evacuating 100 children, including babies, on extreme fire days.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, or VCAT, has dismissed an appeal for a Huntly childcare centre. The backers gave too little information on evacuating 100 children, including babies, on extreme fire days.
Tribunal member Tracey Bilston-McGillen said the proposed management plan failed to 'prioritise human life'. Ms Bilston-McGillen said she had no information on when it may be appropriate to close the centre.
Noise concerns could be addressed through permit conditions. The design could be acceptable with the right controls.
The tribunal also raised concerns about potential flooding at the site. Bendigo council voted in August to oppose the centre, despite councillors' concerns about limited options for parents.
The proposed 100-place centre would be at 21 Oakridge Drive in Huntly.
- 100 children
- Planned capacity
- 21 Oakridge Drive, Huntly
- Proposed location
- Appeal dismissed
- Tribunal decision
- August
- Council vote timing
Why it mattersThe case shows a childcare centre in a bushfire area needs clear, detailed plans to keep children safe.
AustraliaHuntly parents miss out on this planned centre, in a suburb where one in 10 residents is five or younger.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
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