Greenfields cancer support home likely to go ahead despite neighbours’ opposition

A CANCER support centre is likely to go ahead at Greenfields, despite opposition from neighbours.

City of Mandurah has approved a change of use from residential dwelling to cancer support centre for an existing home on the corner of Victoria Circle and McLean Way.

The approval is subject to conditions including operating hours from 8am to 5pm on weekdays only, the use of only directional signage and parking being contained on site.

Residents packed the council meeting this week to put forward their views.

The home, nicknamed Dot’s Place, will be donated to the WA Cancer Council by the Smith Family Foundation.

However, neighbours opposed the proposal, citing concerns such as noise, parking, increased traffic and potential danger to children, increased use of the septic system, the possibility of chemical and body waste entering the groundwater and the potential for crime.

They said they had bought their homes in a tranquil neighbourhood and the centre would damage the amenity.

A spokesman for the Cancer Council said there was a growing need and a new centre in Mandurah was essential.

He said the centre would not provide physiological not clinical services and should be a homely and calming place to counter the rigours of cancer treatment.

It would be managed by the Cancer Council and offer support and information to people dealing with cancer in Mandurah and the Peel region.

The centre would consist of multi-use rooms for a range of services including yoga, meditation, complementary therapies, arts, exercise and cooking.

The building would not be altered apart from disability access.

According to the council, a number of land uses could be considered in residential areas, including medical and childcare centres and a corner shop.

Cr Fred Reibeling said the home was an ideal location for people who might be in crisis.

“I can’t think of a more tranquil spot,’’ he said.