The Belfast Coastal Reserve Action Group (BCRAG) says it has no faith in the plan and believes it should be thrown in the bin.

In a statement released this week, BCRAG said Parks Victoria should be allowed to develop a management plan that truly represents the values of the reserve.

It says Parks Victoria would do this “unencumbered by what now appears to be vested and commercial and political interests”.

BCRAG’s statement comes after the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) announced the interim licence has been extended for horse training at the Belfast Coastal Reserve.

BCRAG has highlighted the comments of DELWP Barwon South West Regional Manager of Community and Partnerships Jason Borg, who said once the management plan was released in the coming weeks, a new licence would be issued to reflect the directions in the final plan.

“Jason Borg’s comments clearly indicates that the plan is skewed towards satisfying the interests of commercial racehorse training rather than being an appropriate coastal management plan,” the statement from BCRAG said.

“BCRAG believe the Management Plan process was flawed from the outset and would have a predetermined outcome, with a heavy bias and involvement toward the racing industry.

“What is proposed is not a coastal management plan. The document is inappropriately named, it is not a management plan, it is a strategic guide, as stated.

“There has still been no comprehensive environmental, cultural or flora and fauna survey of the reserve.

“Verifiable science and facts regarding the environment, wildlife, aboriginal cultural heritage and public safety have been repeatedly ignored.

“This planning process has been a dismal failure on behalf of the Department of Environment Water and Planning.”