The Mayor of Glen Eira has reacted with anger after historic trees were chopped down for the redevelopment of Caulfield Racecourse without what he says is proper consultation.

But Victoria’s Planning Minister says it “beggars belief” for council to suggest they’re surprised by the development.

Demolition work at the racecourse began last month.

“We are not part of the decision making,” Councillor Jim McGee told Dee Dee Dunleavy.

But Richard Wynne’s office hit back, sending 3AW Afternoons the following statement;

“It beggars belief that the Glen Eira Council is claiming to be surprised by the development occurring at Caulfield Racecourse Reserve – which the Government has made significant investments in to unlock open space for the community.”

“The Government has engaged extensively with the Council – including as recently as last year – on transforming the reserve into a people-friendly community recreation space, including through the Victorian Planning Authority, which undertook significant consultation on planning controls for the area and the subsequent amendments to those controls.”

 “Anyone – including the Council – can apply at any time for an interim protection order for a place where there is evidence for state level heritage significance and where there is an imminent or immediate threat. The Heritage Council issued an interim protection order on January 27 under the Heritage Act 2017 for the Caulfield Racecourse after an application was received.”

Press PLAY below to hear why the mayor is angry

Picture: Getty iStock