Corangamite Shire councillors voted to approve a Cellarbrations store in the town’s main street next to the currently-empty Leura Hotel.

Councillor Wayne Oakes, however, refused to support the development.

“Ultimately I don’t think we need more liquor outlets in this town at the moment,” he said. “It’s just not something that sits well with me.”

Mayor Jo Beard said she also had misgivings. 

“I’d be lying if I said this completely sat well with me, but in saying that I really hope the applicant supports the great work already being done in our community in addressing the issues that we face with underage drinking and the increase in that,” she said.                                              

Cr Geoff Smith said he supported a reduction in hours to 10pm and reminded councillors of the “terrible toll” excess alcohol consumption could have on families and the community.

One objection was received for the project from a neighbouring liquor outlet concerned about the amenity impacts, late-night hours and that there were already enough licenced premises in the town.

However, Cr Ruth Gstrein said the community impact of the outlet was well below the recommended threshold and the shopfront would be ideally located within the commercial one zone.

“It’s an opportunity to revitalise that corner near the Leura Hotel,” she said.

Cr Neil Trotter said the fact the business would fill an empty shopfront was reason to support it. “Commercial or competitive considerations are not a valid planning consideration,” he said.