A PLAN for a Dan Murphy's bottle shop to be built on former railway land in central Wodonga is being delayed.
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Wodonga Council announced on Friday that it understood that following discussions the assessment of the planning permit would be put on hold.
The application to build a Dan Murphy's had been slated to come before next month's council meeting for consideration.
Council chief executive Mark Dixon and mayor Kev Poulton issued a media release on Friday afternoon which noted ongoing discussions with Development Victoria which has oversight of Junction Place.
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It follows community opposition to the bottle shop plan and frustration after it emerged a revised master plan for the precinct had been undertaken without community input.
"We all want the same thing and that is getting the best outcome for our community and we think it is fantastic to see our community engaged and passionate about what they want for their city," Mr Dixon said.
"We have heard the community and understand their concerns and aspirations for our city heart.
"We have also identified that we need to communicate more clearly to the community about the process, how they can participate and the next steps, outside the regulatory process."
We continue to talk with Development Victoria and the private developers of Junction Place, urging them in the strongest terms to commence genuine community consultation as soon as possible.
Cr Poulton said councillors were responding to community sentiment.
"I've been well aware of the incremental steps being undertaken - and Development Victoria presented to councillors last month - and we have been speaking up on behalf of the community already" he said.
"There is a long history to this project, and previous councillor groups are recognised for their vision and advocacy.
"My fellow councillors and I are mindful that our role is to continue working towards that vision.
"We have heard from our community on what they want to see on this very important site in our city and I want to thank them for standing up and speaking out.
"I'm confident we will be able to deliver a great outcome for the community."
