Thank you for signing our petition to protect Preston Market.

On 18 May the State Government released their draft plan for the future of Preston Market and the surrounding site, making room for apartment towers up to 20 storeys high.

As Mayor of Darebin Council, I’d like to share my concerns under this proposal.

My primary concern is that under this plan most of the market could be demolished and rebuilt in another location on the site, which would risk losing much of the cultural significance that makes this market so special.

The proposal is also very similar to what the developer proposed 8 years ago, making us question if the Government has been listening to the community.

Darebin City Council will be providing feedback on the plan after our planning team goes through the proposal with a fine-tooth comb.

I encourage you to make a personal submission and tell the State Government what you want for the future of the market.

Consider these things:

• Should the market be moved? Or remain where it is?
• Should the current traders be protected in the future?
• Do you feel like the market’s cultural and heritage significance will be protected by these plans?
• Should they be allowed to build on top of the market? Or should that be prohibited?
• What type of heights do you think are acceptable on the site?
• How many of the new apartments should be made affordable for people on low incomes?
• Is 10% open space enough?
• What standard of design should be accepted? The status quo or world class design of buildings and publicly accessible spaces?
• What level of environmentally sustainable design should be required?

You can make a submission at the Engage Victoria website until 13 July 2021.

In the meantime, continue to share our change.org petition to put pressure on Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

We’ll be in touch to share what feedback we provide, and next steps in our fight to Protect Preston Market.

Please stay COVID safe and for the latest coronavirus updates visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Sincerely,

Cr Lina Messina

Mayor of Darebin