An appeal has been lodged against Corangamite Shire Council’s decision to refuse a planning permit for a solar farm at Bookaar, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal confirmed on Monday.
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The family of Bev McArthur, who is all but certain to represent Western Victoria in the upper house, is involved in a proposal for a 550-hectare solar farm at 520 Meningoort Road, Bookaar.
The hearing is listed in Melbourne for April 29 and is expected to run over four days.
Corangamite Shire Council refused to issue a permit to Bookaar Renewables Pty Ltd at its September 2018 council meeting, highlighting concerns over loss of agricultural land and environmental impacts.
The solar farm proposal involves 700,000 photovoltaic panels, inverters, a substation, battery storage and site compound across a 554 hectare site.
There were more than 80 objections to the proposal and all objectors will receive a letter from VCAT by December 18 detailing how to participate in the proceedings. Objectors have until January 8 to formally advise VCAT if they intend to take part in this next stage.
Mayor Neil Trotter said the council would defend its position before VCAT.
“Councillors were unanimous in their decision to refuse a permit and council will defend that decision before VCAT,” Cr Trotter said.
Bookaar Community Action Group, which has opposed the solar farm, said it had been consulting with lawyers in case an appeal was lodged.
