A proposed $3.5 million church development in Melbourne’s outer south-east is unlikely to proceed after City of Casey councillors voted against granting a planning permit for the project.
The proposal, submitted by Bethel New Life Christian Fellowship, sought approval to construct a two-storey church in Cranbourne South, within an area designated as a green wedge zone. Green wedge areas are intended to protect agricultural land, biodiversity, and rural communities while limiting urban expansion.
Despite a recommendation from council officers supporting the application, councillors voted to reject the proposal during a council meeting on Tuesday night.
Councillor Dave Perry said the decision reflected the purpose of green wedge protections, noting that such areas are intended to act as a buffer against urban sprawl and preserve open space for environmental and rural use.
Under the proposal, the development would have included a church capable of accommodating up to 400 people as well as 120 parking spaces. The site is located opposite a growing residential area in Cranbourne South.
The church argued that it had outgrown its current premises in Dandenong’s industrial area and required a larger facility to serve its expanding congregation. The church provides services in both Tamil and English and serves hundreds of community members.
Pastor John De Britto expressed disappointment following the council’s decision. He said a large proportion of the church’s members live within the Casey municipality and believed the proposed facility would better meet the needs of the local community.
The decision highlights the ongoing challenge faced by councils in balancing community infrastructure needs with long-standing planning protections designed to preserve green wedge areas. While the application has been rejected, future planning options or appeals may still be available to the church.
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