VCAT rejects Forrest Caves caravan park
Proposed camping/caravan park at Forrest Caves rejected by VCAT, who found it at “odds” with island’s “wild, back-to-nature experience”.
A proposed camping and caravan park at Forrest Caves has been rejected by VCAT, who found it would be at “odds” with Phillip Island’s “wild, back-to-nature experience”.
For six years the controversial park plan has been proposed for 8ha at 1285 Phillip Island Rd, with a planning permit for a 266-site caravan park development originally lodged in 2016.
The latest plans for “Surf Park Phillip Island” proposed 177 camp sites – including 26 caravan sites, 37 large camp sites and 114 tent sites – as well as a reception building, two amenities blocks, and caretakers residence.
These plans received 59 objections and went to VCAT last October because the shire failed to make a decision on the application within the statutory timeframe, with councillors later rejecting the plans because the park would be “culpable” to build.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal today handed down its findings, saying the proposal was not acceptable because of its impacts on the environment.
More details in next week’s paper.
Image: The first proposal for a caravan park in Forrest Caves in 2016 was for about 266-sites. The latest plans, just rejected by VCAT, suggested 177-sites.
