Developers, Restaurant Owners Incensed by Compulsory Land Acquisition for School in South Australia

Developers and owners of a local Thai restaurant in Mount Barker, South Australia, are expressing outrage after the state government announced the compulsory acquisition of land for a new school. The decision will lead to the demolition of the popular "Wok the Duck" restaurant and impact a long-term development plan.

“

We are deeply shocked and disappointed by this news, and devastated about the impact this will have on our community and David and Ebony at Wok the Duck.

Lanser, the developer behind the Aston Hills master plan, stated they had been working on their project for over 16 years. They claim the acquisition will result in the loss of up to 150 new homes, a new reserve, and the restaurant. A spokesperson for Lanser expressed shock and disappointment, asserting that the government pursued the acquisition "without notice or consultation" despite their extensive engagement and efforts to find alternative sites. Lanser believes more suitable locations for the school exist and that the current acquisition is not in the best interest of the community.

“

It is Lanser's view that there are more suitable sites for this school that have not been adequately assessed by the Government.

Co-owners of Wok the Duck, David Keir and Ebony Moyle, who invested in the business after selling their family home, were equally blindsided. Keir stated they only learned of the decision on Wednesday and expressed concern about inadequate compensation for their efforts. "Dare I say we're not going to be compensated much whatsoever for our hard work and efforts," he said in a social media post, adding that they had built more than just a business, but a community hub.

“

Dare I say we're not going to be compensated much whatsoever for our hard work and efforts.

Minister for Education Lucy Hood acknowledged the restaurant as a "beloved business" and assured that a dedicated case worker would meet with Keir early next week. The meeting aims to provide information and discuss potential support and compensation as part of the compulsory acquisition process. Hood announced that the 5.5-hectare parcel of land would be used for the new school.

“

They're a beloved business and we want them to continue to operate in Mount Barker and support the community and that's why they'll be met with early next week so we can provide that information and go through all the supports that might be.