Farmers oppose youth centre plan near Ord cotton properties in Western Australia

Plans to establish a new youth center in Kununurra, Western Australia, have met with strong opposition from local farmers concerned about the facility's proximity to agricultural land. The proposed $5.9 million non-residential center is intended to combat endemic youth crime and social dysfunction in the remote Ord Valley.

The Department of Justice and local Aboriginal corporations envision the center operating overnight from Thursday to Sunday, providing transport, food, and support for at-risk youth. Advocates believe it could replicate the success of a similar facility in Fitzroy Crossing, which has been credited with reducing crime rates.

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This land-use decision risks undermining the very agricultural supply chain.

However, farmers like Katie Neve, whose land borders the proposed site, argue that the location poses significant risks. She points to the presence of heavy vehicles, sheds containing potentially hazardous materials, irrigation channels, and a lack of street lighting as dangers, especially during nighttime hours. Neve also highlighted the fire risk associated with surrounding cotton fields.

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We're talking about a strategic agricultural precinct. Planning decisions made today will influence investment confidence in the Ord Valley for years to come.

"This land-use decision risks undermining the very agricultural supply chain," Ms. Neve stated, emphasizing the importance of the Ord Valley as a strategic agricultural precinct. She questioned the compatibility of a youth facility within this environment, suggesting that planning decisions made now could impact future investment confidence in the region.

This is the second proposed location for the center, after initial plans for a site in Kununurra's light industrial area were rejected due to similar concerns raised by nearby businesses. Shire President David Menzel had previously noted the potential for young people to access areas despite security measures.

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It's really reasonable to ask whether an introduction of a youth facility in the middle of this agricultural precinct is going to be compatible.