Alleged Illegal works and vegetation removal

Published on 03 March 2025

Frankston City Council (FCC) is very concerned about the alleged illegal works and vegetation removal in Frankston South. 

Since becoming aware of the activities two weeks ago, Council has been working closely with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), while conducting multiple site visits and issuing formal notices to the landowner, demanding works cease immediately.    

Following those directions, Council today issued a Planning Enforcement Letter and Building Order to Stop Work to the landowner. Council has no record of what vegetation has been removed or what is being constructed, however it is now apparent a significant area of vegetation has been cleared, and a seawall (and potential retaining walls) are being erected.

Works in sensitive coastal environments must be informed by rigorous studies to ensure they do not negatively impact coastal processes, marine ecosystems, or public safety. Council is establishing coastal hazard adaptation pathways that build on both state and local risk assessments, as well as coastal and marine management frameworks. This will help inform the community and work towards reducing the prevalence and impact of illegal structures in these sensitive environments. 

All works and structures undertaken on coastal and marine public (Crown) land require consent from the State Government, as well as planning and building permits where required.  

If the stop work order is breached, Council will be forced to consider further action which may include prosecution.  

Updates on the situation will be issued by Council as required.  

Phil Cantillon, CEO, Frankston City Council.