However, the green light would come with a long list of requirements including a limit on the number of animals, daily removal of animal waste from the paddocks and time restrictions on vehicle movements.

The 1.6-hectare site south of Ponting Drive and adjacent to the Merri River would have between 12 and 18 horses and employ six people in full-time and part-time roles.

It has been used for horse stabling and an exercise area for more than 30 years, but a planning application lodged in March to extend the stables as part of what would technically be called an intensive animal husbandry operation triggered 15 objections.

Nearby residents raised concerns about effects on amenity of the neighbourhood, pollution, smell, truck traffic, loading and hours of operation. Advice was sought from the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority on possible risks to the river environment.

The proposed list of permit conditions include a provision for all stormwater and surface water discharges from the site to be carried by underground pipes to a legal discharge and no polluted water to enter the council’s stormwater system.

A high fence would have to be erected along the boundary with a neighbouring residential property and an adjacent horse paddock decommissioned.

According to the council’s planning officers, proposed use of the land for animal husbandry was “appropriate and allowable use of the urban floodway zone”.

Tonight’s council meeting starting at 5.45pm will also include proposed planning changes to incorporate heritage listings, funding for Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village renewal,  the Middle Island Maremma project, Reid Oval development and a public question time.

pcollins@fairfaxmedia.com.au