Zoe Moffatt
Bulla residents are objecting to a proposed donut store on Bulla Road, saying the location fails to consider critical requirements of CFA emergency vehicles.
The estimated $1.1 million dollar development at 94A Bulla Road seeks to use and develop multiple warehouses with a drive thru food and drink premises, which Star Weekly understands is a donut store, with associated signage and a reduction in car parking.
Hume council issued a notice of decision to grant this permit on March 22, with food and drink operational hours between 5am to 6pm on weekdays and 5am to 6pm on weekends, without prior written consent of the responsible authority.
Local resident Lauren, who does not want her last name published, submitted an objection to Hume council in relation to the application.
She said the application threatens timely emergency vehicle access, is not inline with the community’s infrastructure or heritage and does not provide tangible benefits.
“The proposed development, with its limited access via Green Street, poses a significant obstacle to timely response by emergency services,” Lauren said.
“The unsealed shoulders, open stormwater drains, and old trees lining Green Street directly opposite the proposed two-way driveway further impede access and restrict the traffic’s ability to… make room for emergency vehicles.
“The application predicts that 76 extra vehicles are expected on Green Street during 7am to 8am each weekday morning.
“This is a significant and real risk with serious consequences, on a road that cannot handle the proposed traffic increase.”
In regards to Bulla’s heritage, Lauren said the proposed construction would mar the aesthetics and charm of the historic precinct.
“With no dine-in area or gathering space, this facility is unlikely to foster a sense of community.”
If you are unsure why you haven’t heard of or seen this application, Lauren said she was informed the item was dealt with under delegation by council officers.
A Hume council spokesperson said a matter must be reported to council for determination if six or more objections are received.
“Two objections were received and were considered as part of the decision,” they said.
The spokesperson said the warehouses and drive thru food and drinks premises propose access directly from Green Street on the western property boundary.
“The CFA is located on the opposite side of Green Street from the site with direct access to Green Street on their eastern property boundary (frontage). No access changes are proposed to the CFA as a result of the application.
“The application was accompanied with a traffic impact assessment which assessed that the proposal would likely result in low traffic impacts and would not pose any safety impacts on Green Street or Bulla Road.”
Laura said she is not opposed to development in the area and growth can be positive when executed thoughtfully.
“Any development must be appropriate and in harmony with the existing community values, infrastructure, and character,” she said.
“It is crucial that we strike a balance between embracing change and preserving the unique essence of Bulla.”
