A real estate agent is concerned an application for an independent service station in Melton is not getting “priority”, with MPs backing the establishment of an independent service station in the suburb.
Star Weekly understands that a planning application for an independent service station at 136-144 Coburns Road, Melton, was submitted to Melton council April 25, with the site sold by Pear Real Estate agency.
Pear Real Estate commercial real estate agent Adam Gill said he began looking for sites in Melton suitable for an independent petrol station after speaking with Hawke MP Sam Rae.
“He suggested that we need an independent petrol station to bring the prices down to create competition, so that’s what led to me looking for sites and seeing the opportunity – because all these petrol stations in Melton seem to have these [high] prices,” Mr Gill said.
He said that as soon as one discount fuel retailer comes into Melton, others will be forced to reduce their prices due to competition.
Mr Gill feels the planning application submitted to council is not being prioritised.
“I would say that this application – given the unjust petrol prices that people are facing – should have been a priority for the council staff …. It’s having a devastating effect on disposable income … in Melton. The staff need to explain why this isn’t a priority,” Mr Gill said.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said he encourages Melton council to approve permits for independent operators to enter the fuel market in Melton.
Star Weekly understands Mr Rae has also advocated to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to investigate fuel prices in Melton and has written to the relevant minister to flag the issue.
A Melton spokesperson said the council understands the community’s interest in this application and its outcome.
“Council has clear and thorough processes for reviewing all planning applications to make sure we have all of the information we need to make an informed decision and ensure we are complying with any legislative requirements,” the spokesperson said.
“This application is currently within the 60-day statutory assessment period.”
