By BEN CAMERON
A PAKENHAM industrial estate with its reputation for after hours anti-social behaviour will be home to a new martial arts studio.
Cardinia Shire Council unanimously supported a planning permit for a personal training hub in Bate Close.
While the studio will open from as early as 6.30am, its peak business hours are expected to be after 5pm.
The Pakenham Gazette revealed police reports last month that more than 150 cars were seen leaving the area around 10.30pm following reports of burn outs, property damage and gunshots.
The studio plan has been unpopular with some adjacent businesses, arguing it would cause damage to nature strips from illegal parking and rubbish issues.
The proposed site, which currently contains an existing warehouse on the north-western side of Bate Close, would teach pilates and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for up to six days a week.
The applicant has addressed noise concerns saying only ambient music would be played.
The studio had a big fan in Central Ward Cr Kate Lempriere, who looked forward to the day councillors would be invited down to see the studio up-and-running.
“Anything that teaches restraint and participation, that creates mateship and fitness (is great),” he said.
“We’re very lucky to have this in Pakenham.”
Ranges Ward Cr Brett Owen said the new studio could help alter the poor reputation of Bate Close.
“There have been problems with anti-social behaviour in this area,” he said.
“It will help stop these undesirables.”
Central Ward Cr Jodie Owen said the facility would be a great way to teach children respect and discipline.
“There have been some out of control issues (in the area),” she said.
“I think this is a great thing for the community.”
The studio would operate with a maximum of two staff at any given time, and a maximum of ten participants, either adults or children.
