Tasmanian Berries, based at Exton, proposes to build more polytunnels, a 50-metre machinery shed and worker's accommodation for about 50 seasonal fruit pickers. They also propose to convert an existing dwelling to an office, and build a new house.

The proposed expansion is about 64 hectares, with the berry tunnels taking up about 33 hectares. 

The worker’s accommodation is made up of five dormitory buildings, each accommodating up to 10 people. 

One communal kitchen building and one amenities building is also proposed to provide facilities to the worker’s accommodation area. 

A development application was lodged by Rebecca Green and Associates on behalf of the site’s owners to the Meander Valley Council. 

“The last financial year, the business employed the equivalent of 101 full time equivalent staff,” the application said.

“The proposed development will increase the business by approximately 47 per cent, increasing employment to 148 full time equivalent staff.” 

As the polytunnels are temporary structures, the soil would not be used as part of the expansion. This means the land is not necessarily excluded from a different agricultural use in the future. 

Proposed drainage improvement works associated with the polytunnels would be retained if the polytunnels are removed, but would improve the productive capacity of any future potential agricultural activity on the land, the application said.

The proposed temporary accommodation is required as part of the proposed and existing agricultural enterprise to assist with being able to accommodate the large seasonal picker workforce that is required to run the enterprise.

There are two existing vehicular access points to the land. The proposal will see access continue from the existing access points to Exton Road.

“The proposal is consistent with the relevant State and local policies, planning scheme objectives and considerations and objectives of the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993,” the application said.

“It is therefore recommended that the proposal be considered for planning approval.”

The application is open for public comment until Friday, January 11 through the council’s website.