July 2006
Minutes of the meeting of the Kensington Association held on 3 July 2006

Apologies:  Christine and Hedley Moffatt

1.  Lot A9 to be purchased for public open space
The Association has learned that Lot A9 (adjacent to the Maribyrnong River Stock Bridge) is to be purchased by the City of Melbourne and will be landscaped as public open space.   This is a successful outcome of long term efforts by the Association and the Council.  It was resolved that when official notice is received, the Association's appreciation be communicated to the MCC.

 2.  Reunite Kensington
The Association has received a letter from a spokesman for the Minister for Local Government stating that alterations of current municipal boundaries not be considered unless there are "truly exceptional circumstances" and that the association has not demonstrated such circumstances.  Resolved that the Association consider its options on this matter.

3.  Planning application for 3rd storey on house in Simpson's Walk, Kensington Banks
Owners of a property have made a third application to obtain a planning permit to add a 3rd story to their existing
building.   Resolved to oppose this application, as before, as being inconsistent with the agreed built form for the Banks.  

4. Royal Agricultural Society parking request
RAS has approached the MCC to allow public access to Flemington Racecourse via  Smithfield Road for parking during the Royal Melbourne Show.  The Association has concerns about further use of this entry.  There are many issues currently unresolved with this intersection, including illegal "rat running" through the Banks and illegal right hand turns.   Resolved to ask for progress to relieve current problems before further access is approved.    

5.  Donating to humanitarian relief in our region
Given that current financial year expenses had already been covered by receipts received by early June, the Association announced that at least 50% of further fees received by 30 June would be donated to humanitarian relief.   As a result of further fees received, the Association was now in a position to donate $400.  It was resolved that $200 each be donated to the Red Cross appeal for the Java earthquake and the Austcare East Timor appeal.  The Treasurer was thanked for devising the scheme.  Resolved to thank all Association members who have paid fees during the period July 2005-June 2006 and thus making this donation possible.   

6.  Flemington Racecourse Bund Wall
Members reported that the bund wall construction has commenced.   As outlined in the hydrology studies of the river, the racecourse and surrounding area, the footings at the Dynon Road bridge have been widened as part of the planned flood mitigation work.  It was noted that community consultation on landscaping had been agreed upon.  It was resolved to find out when consultation would commence.

7.  Eastwood Street
A resident commented adversely on the construction of the bike/footpath.  Concern was also raised about rubbish and the unkept appearance of the railway easement.  It was suggested that a small group of residents might wish to raise concerns with the relevant authorities and the Association could lend appropriate support.

8.   "Welcome to Kensington" Project
The proposal is to design and implement a pack of information on services and facilities Kensington for new renters and home buyers to the area.  It is envisaged that the pack could be distributed by local real estate agents.  The project would be funded by the MCC Community Information grant.  Resolved that the Treasurer forward the project.

9.  Kensington Estate
The Association continues to object to the proposed 7-story apartment development opposite the child care center.  The issues are siting, parking and height.  It was noted that the proposal is not consistent with the original, agreed plan.
Resolved that the Association will continue to press its view at the consultative committee.

The Annual General Meeting of the Kensington Association will be held at 7:30 pm on Monday 7 August 2006 at the Holy Rosary School, Gower Street.