A development application has been received for the temporary use of a portion of the Bethany building, within the Mercy Care complex, in Campbell Street, Young, as a residential care facility, for a period of 12 months. 

As a condition of development consent, the council requires payment of money typically as a contribution to the cost of the provision of infrastructure that may be needed due to the development.

The Council said sufficient justification was provided for the exemption of the $ 2,500 s7.12A payment by the applicant.

A council report said whilst the value of the work is moderately high, the actual works are small in scale and are for fire-safety upgrades.

"The development does not increase the floor area of the building and does not result in any greater occupancy rates on the site overall,”  the report said.

“The use is temporary in nature, and there is no increased demand for public works, services or facilities, as it accommodates existing residents of the nearby residential care facility only.

"The proposal does provide a short-term public benefit in the area of aged care services."

Works are due to start soon and involve the temporary relocation of residents to the Bethany Building, while works are being undertaken to the adjoining St Joseph’s residential care facility. 

The Applicant has sought an exemption from the s7.12A  contribution due to being a not-for-profit organisation and a registered charity.