The State Government Planning Panel last night decided to defer a final decision on the application for the development of 44-48 Oxford St, and the destruction of the heritage cottage. But the deferral was only for one month, and only to enable the developer to come up with an acceptable and enforceable “green travel plan”. The planning panel appeared to otherwise accept the developer’s application, and indicated they were of a mind to approve it. If approved, the heritage cottage will be demolished.

They rejected the Trust’s excellent heritage submission. They also rejected a submission from State member, Damien Tudehope MP, in favour of retaining the heritage cottage. They rejected the submissions of the Trust, the Epping Chamber of Commerce, Save Eppings Forest Park, and three other representatives of the Epping Community.

The community is dismayed at the imminent loss of this part of our heritage. What can the Epping community do to be heard? Perhaps only by demonstrating in the streets. And certainly at the ballot box.