Mount Victoria, a charming village nestled in the Blue Mountains, is renowned for its historic charm and natural beauty. As the only historically listed town in the Blue Mountains, it holds a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike. However, recent plans to introduce a 7-Eleven petrol station with a towering 7 to 10-meter neon sign have sparked a wave of concern and opposition among the local community. The prospect of such a development threatens to disrupt the village’s heritage and character, and the residents of Mount Victoria are standing firm in their opposition.
A Community United
The proposal for the 7-Eleven petrol station at 109 Great Western Highway has been met with staunch resistance from the residents of Mount Victoria. As a community deeply invested in preserving the unique charm and historical significance of their village, locals have mobilized to voice their concerns. Letters of objection have flooded the Blue Mountains City Council, highlighting the numerous reasons why this development is not welcome.
One of the most contentious aspects of the proposal is the 7 to 10-meter neon sign that would be visible from various parts of Mount Victoria. This sign, along with the presence of a large chain franchise, is seen as an affront to the village’s heritage and aesthetic. The residents argue that such a development is not in harmony with the historic nature of Mount Victoria and would significantly detract from the village’s unique character.
Preserving Historical Integrity
Mount Victoria’s historical significance cannot be overstated. The village is home to several heritage-listed buildings, including the original sandstone post office and the first public school in the Blue Mountains. These landmarks serve as tangible reminders of the village’s rich history and contribute to its distinctive identity. The introduction of a modern, neon-lit petrol station would be incongruent with the historical fabric of the village.
The Blue Mountains City Council’s own Local Environment Plan (2015) underscores the importance of preserving Mount Victoria’s historical integrity. It states, “Mount Victoria is unique amongst all of the villages in the City of Blue Mountains.” This sentiment is echoed on the council’s website, which promotes Mount Victoria as a true historic Victorian village that transports visitors back in time. The proposed development, with its commercial and modern characteristics, starkly contrasts with this vision and threatens to undermine the village’s historical significance.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Beyond the aesthetic and historical concerns, there are significant environmental and safety issues associated with the proposed 7-Eleven development. The location of the petrol station on the narrowest part of the Great Western Highway poses a serious risk to both residents and tourists. Increased traffic congestion and the potential for accidents are major concerns, particularly given the high volume of trucks that already traverse this section of the highway.
The presence of a petrol station also raises environmental concerns. The transport and storage of dangerous goods, such as fuel, bring the risk of spills and pollution, which could have detrimental effects on the local environment. The impact of 24-hour operations, including noise, light, and air pollution, would further disrupt the tranquil and pristine nature of Mount Victoria.
Community Health and Well-being
The health and safety of the community, especially the children, are paramount. Mount Victoria is home to three schools, including a public school located adjacent to the proposed development site. The proximity of the petrol station to the school raises serious concerns about the well-being of the students. Increased traffic, the risk of accidents, and potential exposure to pollutants are valid fears that the residents are not willing to compromise on.
Standing Firm Against Chain Franchises
The community’s opposition to the 7-Eleven proposal is also rooted in a broader resistance to chain franchises. Mount Victoria prides itself on its unique, locally-owned businesses that contribute to the village’s character and economy. The introduction of a large chain franchise would set a precedent for further commercial development, fundamentally altering the village’s character and detracting from its charm.
The successful opposition to McDonald’s entering the Blue Mountains is a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving their way of life. Allowing 7-Eleven to establish itself in Mount Victoria would undermine these efforts and open the door to other chain franchises, eroding the village’s unique identity.
A Call to Preserve Mount Victoria
The residents of Mount Victoria are not opposed to development per se, but they advocate for thoughtful, community-oriented development that respects the village’s historical and environmental significance. They call on the Blue Mountains City Council to reject the 7-Eleven development application and to prioritize the preservation of Mount Victoria’s heritage.
Mount Victoria is a treasure that deserves to be protected. Its historical significance, natural beauty, and close-knit community make it a unique and special place. The introduction of a 7-Eleven petrol station, with its towering neon sign and commercial presence, is incompatible with the village’s character. By standing together, the residents of Mount Victoria are sending a clear message: they value their heritage and are committed to preserving the unique charm of their historic village for generations to come.