September 14th, 2023The Block chopped in Daylesford

Words: Donna Kelly

Television show The Block will not go ahead in Daylesford because of delays in permit approvals, metropolitan media is reporting.
It was believed that The Block would build five houses at 1 Raglan Street, starting production in February. After objections, the planning application was taken to VCAT where it was then “called in” by the state Planning Minister.
But media is reporting that the producers have decided they will run out of time for permits and are now looking at potential Melbourne sites for the 20th edition of the show. They have said they may look at the Daylesford site again for a future show.
Reaction on social media has been mixed with comments from those who wanted the show to go ahead, and those who are pleased it has been dumped.
“This would have been a great thing for the town during a tough time for a lot of local businesses. It would have spurred things along just at the right time. Something will end up on the site. There could be a lot worse happen depending on who ends up with the site and land parcel sizes etc.”
“The no sayers should be careful what they wish for. They are now going to be
responsible for 50 or 60 small allotments. I’m sure they will take no responsibility for
that. I would much prefer five larger homes.”
“How disappointing, I was so looking forward to this and it would have brought a lot of money to our town I am sure all of our businesses would have been looking forward to this injection of money.”
“It would bring nothing to the town, they bring in building materials from a supplier in Melbourne the production company has accounts with, all the tradies would be brought in from elsewhere. What economic benefit would it bring, coffees in town?”
“Covid is over, the town is packed every weekend, maybe the businesses that aren’t doing well are suffering because of exorbitant rents or not selling what tourists want. The cargo cult of The Block won’t save them.”
“If businesses in town need the extra custom they anticipate from The Block juggernaut maybe they should have a long, hard talk with their accountant.”
“Perhaps they could do a social housing season. Homes for the many not the few.”