The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has filed a court case against the Victorian government, seeking to have its payout increased to $27.91 million for land acquired for the North East Link project.
The government took over the 61,080-square-metre site in Bulleen, previously home to the Hoyts Bulleen Drive-In, in 2021 as part of the $26 billion toll road project, set to open in 2028.
The community had planned to build a centre and sell part of the land for development, but the project was halted by the North East Link.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Valuer General appraised the land at $11.45 million, with the department offering and paying $11.48 million.
However, the GCM, through law firm Rigby Cooke, argues the land is worth $26.5 million based on a valuation report by M3 Property and is now suing for $27.91 million, including land value, compensation, and legal costs.
The property, which includes limited developable land, could have been used for mixed-use, residential, and community purposes.
The GCM holds significant assets, including the Greek Centre on Lonsdale Street and Alphington Grammar School, with its churches valued at over $110 million.
The Department of Transport and Planning maintains that compensation is based on independent assessments by the Valuer General.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald.
