Community
22 August, 2024
New petrol station, rural store proposed
PLANNING permits have been lodged to bring a new 24-hour petrol station and rural and trade supplies store to the Hopkins Highway just south-west of Mortlake, creating up to 17 new jobs.
The applications show the architectural plans for a proposed Liberty petrol station and Elders Rural Store and trade supplies to be located on the same site just outside of town.
The vacant site was previously used as grazing land, but the proposed service station and rural stores have stated the proposed use of the land is consistent with the purpose of farming land.
The proposed Elders Rural Store site would measure in at approximately 1.46 hectares, with the rural store covering 613 square metres and a trade supplies component covering 331 square metres.
The site proposes to be open from 8.30am through to 5.30pm with up to 12 staff members.
The application states the proposal is consistent with the frameworks of the Moyne Planning Scheme.
While the business would be located on Farming Zone land, the applicant notes the nature of the proposal aligns with the purposes of the zone in encouraging the retention of employment and population to support rural communities through direct employment and services.
“The proposed Elders premises will provide storage for a wide range of products for use in agriculture and sell and hire various materials, equipment, machinery and other goods for use in primary production,” the application states.
“The proposed rural store and trade supplies premises provides an important service which supports primary production within Moyne Shire.
“It contributes to Mortlake’s role as an agribusiness centre and provides a support service to Western Victoria Livestock Exchange through the provision of proximate agricultural supplies.
“The use will contribute to the economic vibrancy of the Moyne Shire, and Mortlake in particular, supporting agricultural uses through the provision of rural sales use.”
The proposed Liberty Petrol station would cover an area of 1.6 hectares, consisting of a convenience store building, fuel bowsers and protective canopies for cars and trucks.
The site is proposed to be open 24-7, with one-three staff at any given time and four-five on total rotation.
The application states the proposal provides an important service to support the economic vitality of Moyne Shire.
“The use will contribute to the economic vibrancy of the Moyne Shire and Mortlake in particular, contributing to the economic success of a small town,” the application states.
“The development is appropriately located, having regard to its context, providing a necessary service to the local community and motorists in general.
“The proposed use of land is compatible with the surrounding area.
“The development will not negatively impact the state’s agricultural productivity, and will support agricultural use within the wider region.”
The responsible authority will not decide on either of the applications prior to Wednesday, August 28.
Anyone who may be affected by the granting of the permit has an opportunity to lodge a submission through an objection to planning permit form.
For more information on any of the planning permit applications contact the planning unit directly on 1300 656 564 or email moyne@moyne.vic.gov.au.