Plans to build a new caravan park near Coldstream in Victoria’s Yarra Valley have been given the green light and supporters say will bring new life to a ‘dying town’.
Yarra Ranges councillors have just given the proposal near unanimous approval despite fierce opposition from some local residents who were concerned about privacy, noise, lighting and the suitability of the rural site.
All but one councillor agrees that the proposed new caravan park – just off the Maroondah Highway – with spots for 150 caravans, cabins and tents would boost the town’s economy and provide much-needed accommodation in the area.
The Leader newspaper reports that Cr Fiona McAllister told last night’s council meeting that the park could potentially lead to the return of a petrol station, more shops and add vibrancy to Coldstream.
And, no doubt thinking about grey nomads, Cr Tim Heenan said the caravan park would help to attract tourists to the Yarra Valley out of peak periods.
“It’s not about bringing people out here on a Friday or Saturday night, it’s keeping them here during the week,” he said. “That’s what our tourist businesses need.”
However, Caravan Park Opposition Group spokesman Ken McGowan told the Leader that he questioned how the caravan park would help the individual residents in Coldstream.
“It may help the traders and park owner but will it help the average resident?” Mr McGowan asked.
But another resident, Mel Bruce, told the Leader he hoped the park would boost the ‘dying’ town.
“They’ll walk to the IGA for groceries,” he said. “And Coldstream might get to build more shops.”
Definitely,great brewery and the gateway to the Yarra Valley.Great place to base.
Coldstream being only 30 odd Klms out of Melbourne CBD would make a great staging area to visit the Yarra Valley. I doubt that it’s attractions ie Nellie Melba”s old house and Vesty Family House, could be a reason to spend significant time in the township. If the locals make it truly RV friendly then they may get a boost to their economy.
If the prices are kept down
Yes. Might even book my van and cabin club in if they provide a meeting room . Gets cold there.
As long as they keep the camp cost down and not like Ashley Gardens. We stayed their for one night after coming from Tasmania on a day trip, $65 for the night. What a rip off.
Yes…. if allowed dogs (all sizes)…. and no charge for pets
Yes. Having a pet friendly park is important to us and then things to do such as wineries, cycling, places for good coffee and food …
People staying and sharing with friends and chat groups can encourage people to stay of all age groups for different things. Yackandandah Caravan Park is a good example. Just need to publicise the things to do and people will generally spend money in the town which flows on to many things, even better health care coverage.