A neighbourhood house’s hopes to host a small food trailer on their property have been squashed by planning regulations.
Creeds Farm Living and Learning Centre manager Antoinette Ioannou said she wanted to situate an açai van at the back of the neighbourhood house property.
Ms Ioannou said the açai van would also connect people through healthy food options.
“I do not understand why we are unable to rent our space for this small food trailer … it’s the size of a rectangle table … and located within our premises,” she said.
“Açai is similar to ice cream but a healthier food choice for our local families.
“We are trying to make a connection with the community, a lot of people don’t know we are here.”
According to Whittlesea council, Creed’s Farm is in a general residential zone where takeaway food premises, including food trucks, are prohibited.
The only exception to this rule in the Whittlesea planning scheme is if the location adjoins or has access to a main road.
The food van would be located off of Redding Rise, which council said is not considered to be a main road.
According to council, these regulations are consistent across all planning schemes in Victoria, not just Whittlesea.
Planning schemes are developed by the state government in partnership with local councils, and can be amended through formal processes.
Whittlesea planning and development director Emma Appleton said the council is legally bound by the planning scheme and cannot approve uses that are prohibited.
“Council acknowledges the important role Creeds Farm … plays in the community and appreciates its efforts to explore new initiatives,” she said.
“If Creeds Farm wishes to explore other options, such as establishing a café or similar activity on the site, our planning team would welcome further discussions.”
Ms Ioannou said the location of the van off of Redding Rise would be safe and accessible.
“The street is located sufficiently far from our venue to allow safe manoeuvring of vehicles without issues.”
Ms Ioannou also said the van would support the neighbourhood house’s non-for-profit work.
“The revenue generated would assist in maintaining our building and revitalising resources needed to support our community.”
Ms Ioannou said she has had to start charging locals for programs to pay for administration and wages.
“I’m not doing this for the love of wages… it was my dream to work in the community.
“I do not see how this is problematic… hiring out our space to a food trailer is a win, win.”
