Questions have been raised about Hobsons Bay council’s delay in revealing plans for the Laverton Primary School site.
The council allocated $2.3 million in its 2014-15 budget to buy the former school for parkland and social housing. The total cost for the 1.4-hectare site, excluding GST, is $2.6 million.
According to a council report, 10,000 square metres would be required for a neighbourhood park, leaving 4450 square metres that could be used for “affordable housing”.
Former councillor John Hogg has questioned why no plans for the site have been revealed after more than 14 months.
“My concern over this project is the lack of consultation and communication by councillors, which robs ratepayers of the opportunity to lobby councillors on what type of housing should be built and the guidelines for its use,” he said.
“Will council have to borrow more money to complete the project? Has council found a partner?”
Mr Hogg said he believed the council should give preference to independent living for seniors and people with a disability.
Mayor Colleen Gates said a report was being prepared for the council.
“Now that we own the land … council is keen to commence a master planning process and start discussions with the local community,” she said.
