A LACK of consultation over the placement of relocatable units has led Moyne councillors to call for better communication from the state government.
The shire will officially write to Housing Minister Wendy Lovell to express its view that neighbours should be notified when units and other dwellings are erected within close proximity to other houses.
Cr Mick Wolfe claimed there were several incidents across the municipality where adjacent residents were unaware that relocatable units were being installed by the Housing Department until after placement.
He highlighted an example where a relocatable unit had been placed 9.5 metres away from the main residence of a neighbour and less than 4.5 metres from the landholder’s back fence. “I’m sure anyone would be surprised if they returned home and saw a relocatable unit plonked next door without warning,” Cr Wolfe said.
“I’m not against relocatable housing because it’s an important part of our social system.
“Even if neighbours can’t do anything about it, I think it’s only right that neighbours are given a bit of notice before a new building is set up next door.”
Councillors unanimously adopted Cr Wolfe’s recommendation pushing for a meeting with Ms Lovell or one of her representatives.