Council acquires land along Scotchmans Creek Trail

Published on 11 September 2020

Monash Council has compulsorily acquired part of a parcel of land (2,720m2) that abuts Scotchmans Creek in Mount Waverley to preserve it as open space and to ensure the continuation of a section of the Scotchmans Creek Trail.

A trail currently runs alongside the fence line of properties that back on to the parcel of land for sale. Council is planning to relocate the path from its current location to move it closer to the creek to sit on the land that has been acquired. Design work is commencing for the path relocation with construction planned for next year.

The whole of the land has recently been advertised for sale through selling agents CBRE via an expression of interest process closing at 2pm on 16 September, 2020. Council is entitled to compulsorily acquire the land (or part of) for a public purpose (public open space) under section 7(1) (a) of the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986.

Mayor Stuart James said the existing concrete path was constructed by Council many years ago and it is a popular path for biking and walking.

“When we became aware of the sale of the land, Council acted quickly as we believe it is important that this path and access from Waverley Road to Forster Road is maintained for public use,” Cr James said.

“Acquiring part of the land and moving the trail so that it runs alongside the beautiful natural environment of Scotchmans Creek will not only ensure people can continue to use this pathway for leisure, but also opens the trail up to connect more with the creek environment.

“Monash is proud of its significant linear trails, such as the Waverley Rail Trail, Station Trail, Scotchmans Creek, Gardiners Creek, Dandenong Creek and Melbourne Water pipe track, which are used for cycling and pedestrian activity for both leisure and commuter purposes. This acquisition will secure public access to this section of Scotchmans Creek for generations to come.”

The remaining land not acquired by Council remains in private ownership (Blue Cross Community Care Services Group P/L) and would require a planning permit should any development be proposed. Any planning application would allow for the normal public notification, objection and appeal provisions as allowed under the planning process.

View the Notice of Acquisition in the Victorian Government Gazette.