Wodonga councillors vote 6-1 to oppose Junction Place master plan

Councillors voted 6-1 on Monday night against the revised blueprint for the former railway corridor put forward by Development Victoria which was feared to be the "Trojan horse" for a Dan Murphy's bottle shop being built on a site formerly earmarked for cinema and entertainment complex.

Each councillor who voted against the master plan was roundly applauded by one of the largest galleries seen at a Wodonga Council meeting since the saleyards relocation controversy.

The succession of councillors opposing the master plan, which had the backing of council staff, began with Cr Kat Bennett and ended with mayor Kevin Poulton.

The only councillor to vote for the master-plan was John Watson.

Two of the main community-based objectors to the master-plan and a Dan Murphy's bottle shop, Michael Gobel and Bobbi McKIbbin were thrilled with the shock vote.

"It was a really good outcome," Mr Gobel said.

"Voices were heard by councillors, big tick to six out of the seven councillors, for hearing the community's conviction around this issue to determine the future outcome of Junction Place and hold fast to that of it being a place of pride for our community."

Ms McKibbin: "I want to thank all the councillors for hearing us and taking this seriously.

"I know it's difficult for them and the job they have.

"But No.1 they are there to represent community and they have done that tonight."

More to come

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