Cr Dean Rees was speaking at Tuesday’s meeting in favour of a subdivision at Wangaratta Golf Course when he made the point that his and others’ children needed to grow up in a city which continued to improve.

The council has approved plans for 59 new homes to be built on a 7.98-hectare section of the golf club on Wangandary Road, but the proposal will have to go to an independent panel to resolve issues raised in some of the 18 public submissions.

Only Cr Ruth Amery voted against continuing with the golf course proposal, but did not explain her reasons at the meeting.

“I’m a big believer that we need to change people’s perceptions of development – development is a good thing,” Cr Rees said.

“The golf course development is always going to be a precarious decision with neighbours facing most sides with a great golf course.

“Whether this helps the golf course out financially or not, only the future will tell – as far as residential subdivision goes, we are falling short.”

Some neighbours’ issues included worries the different lot sizes would impact the character and lifestyle of the estate, there would be more traffic and noise in the area, and it would make existing drainage problems worse.

The council did agree to some minor changes to plan, such as ensuring hydrants were up to CFA standards.

“Wangaratta needs to develop and we are behind other municipalities around Wangaratta – you look at Wodonga and all these places that are getting more business and more economic growth,” Cr Rees said.

“Wangaratta is falling behind and will soon become a retirement village if we do not.”

Cr Harry Bussell supported the subdivision after what he said was a long deliberation.

“Let’s send a message to developers that we’re open for business,” he said.

“I’m satisfied concerns will be met.

“This will be a great project, which is one of many I want to keep moving.”