Albury councillors give whole-hearted support to childcare centre in south of the city despite 28 objections

The resolution contrasts with a 7-1 decision in September to reject a plan for a childcare centre in Sackville Street near the Albury TAFE campus.

The business approved on Monday night is in South Albury in Macauley Street and it would host 112 children and 18 full-time equivalent staff.

Councillor David Thurley said it was "entirely inappropriate" to compare the South Albury plan with what was put up in September.

"Sackville Street was a tiny block and the scale is nothing like this one but neither is the block as big as this," Cr Thurley said.

South Albury resident Sally Borella raised her objections in a public forum before Monday night's meeting.

She noted the Macauley Street plan was four times larger than Sackville Street, so there should be four times the concern about it.

Greater traffic, noise and devaluation of nearby properties were other concerns.

Ms Borella was frustrated the Sackville Street outcome could not be a precedent.

Councillor Darren Cameron, who was absent for the September decision, was the sole 'no' voter last night.

He said he was somewhat persuaded by Ms Borella's argument and noted Cr Thurley stated other types of enterprises, such as electrical businesses, would not be allowed in residential zones.

"As Cr Thurley pointed out we wouldn't put a commercial business of another type here and I just don't think the location is appropriate," Cr Cameron said.

Councillor Stuart Baker said there was a wider community need for childcare.

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"I've given this a lot of consideration and I note every time there is a childcare centre (proposed) there is invariably opposition from those living near it, people living a bit further away generally support it because they know it is required in the community," Cr Baker said.

"I think the council recommendation adequately covers off all the concerns I have."

Councillor Ashley Edwards did not participate in the debate, citing a conflict because she lives in the vicinity of the site earmarked for the centre.

Two homes will be demolished to build the childcare centre which will open from 6.30am to 6.30pm on weekdays.

The report presented to councillors on Monday night described the design of the childcare centre as "sympathetic to the surrounding residential character" and noted a car park at the front of the building would have "surface treatments to soften the appearance of the space".

Meanwhile, council on Monday night supported a provisional plan to name a recently constructed grandstand at Lavington Sports Ground after the late Col Donnolley, who was integral to the formation of the nearby sports club and was a long-standing president of the Lavington football club.

Deputy mayor Steve Bowen was the only councillor to speak on the matter.

He flagged Mr Donnolley's sporting connections across cycling and cricket as well as football.

"I think it's a very fitting tribute and a great way to honour his work and also to allow that stand to have a name, to allow it to be accessed and also from a safety aspect to let people know where they're sitting and where to evacuate to if required," Cr Bowen said.

The plan for the CT Donnolley Stand will now be circulated for public feedback before another report is presented to the council.

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