By Aaron Cordy
GREATER Shepparton is growing, which means new infrastructure, like schools, is required. One new school proposal that was fast-tracked by the State Government has caused a stir among residents in the vicinity of the site, who fear the influx of traffic at drop-off and pick-up times will make accessing their homes almost impossible.
The proposed primary school will be located at 1-3 Gloucester Crescent, Shepparton, on the corner of King Street and opposite Gowrie Street Primary School, formerly the Macedonian Community Cultural Heritage Society of Shepparton and District. The school would accommodate up to 150 students from foundation to grade 5 with a maximum of 12 staff.
The lack of consultation has angered residents and the King Street businesses who will be most affected by the school. A sign on the site and registered letters, which most received after the proposal was approved, were the only warning of the new school.
Owner of Sister Studio on Kings Street, Laura Ross, is worried about her clients being able to find parking and school parents taking the limited spots available when the school opens.
“I’m not happy with the decision. People come here because of the free parking, but with the new school there’s nowhere to park. It’s always been like that. It’s hard enough to be a business owner without having that sort of stuff going on,” said Laura.
Several residents submitted concerns about the proposed school, citing traffic and parking as the top of the list of issues, which have fallen on deaf ears.
Greater Shepparton City Council also seems to be kept out of the loop in the planning process, which has no set opening date.
“It seems to go through unannounced to councillors some of these things, and then we get the blame for it. We haven’t had a part of the process here. It’s just over our heads,” said McEwen Ward councillor, Cr Steven Threlfall.
“So next time you think about coming to council, for sure, come to council or your councillor and raise the alarm and do what you’ve got to do, that’s what we’re here for. But the other end of the stick is, we don’t see some of these things coming.” Council was consulted, which was highlighted at point 31 in the delegate report from the State Government’s Department of Transport and Planning.
“Notice of the application was given to Greater Shepparton City Council. Council responded on 3 June 2026 advising that the Planning Department had no comments to make on the application,” stated the report.
As of writing, there is no outline for enrolments and opening the school.
