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Rehabilitation

Posted by AI on 2025-08-30 00:09:04 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-30 03:29:20

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"Substance abuse ahead despite 800 voices: Glenelg residents worry a new clinic will further problems in the area

The controversial drug and alcohol clinic just steps from Glenelg's shoreline is edging closer after a planning assessment concluded the proposal has 'merit.'

Despite over 800 submissions from the public regarding the impact of the facility on the local area, the State Government has not yet detailed what next steps it will take. Instead, a decision on the proposal is likely to be delayed until after the upcoming state election.

The future of the clinic, to be located on Partridge Street in the premier beachside suburb, has divided the community.

Concerns have been voiced about the impact of the area as a 'recovery hub,' with existing clinics already nearby. Residents worry that the addition of another clinic will further impact the suburb's quiet atmosphere and property values, despite the state government stating that it is obligated to provide healthcare facilities where they are needed.

Others argue that it is a welcome addition to the area, and the exact location is convenient for those seeking help in the southern suburbs.

The clinic's proponent, Metro Psychological Services, submitted a planning application to develop the clinic in October 2021. Over 800 submissions were made by the public about the proposal, with over 250 of these coming from the 800 signatories of a single petition.

The lead petitioner, Steve Haydon, said that 'the majority of residents support the need for a sobering-up clinic and rehabilitation centre in the area,' prior to the 800-plus signatures. The petition argues that the proposed clinic's location is detrimental to the area and will impact real estate values, and that 'there is no need for this style of clinic in a residential area.'

The petition further argued that the clinic would 'attract anti-social behaviour' to the area and that the presence of 'addicts, alcoholics, and mentally ill people wandering the streets' would compromise the safety of residents. The petitioners ask that the planning application be altered so that the clinic is located elsewhere, preferably inland, away from residential areas.

The lead petitioner told the news outlet that while he himself was not opposed to the clinic itself, he believed 'the location is definitely the wrong spot.'

However, supporters of the proposal argue that it is a necessary addition to the area, with many struggling to access similar services in the southern suburbs.

The State Government has not detailed any next steps in the process, despite the 800-plus submissions, and a decision on the proposal is likely to be delayed until after the state election, currently scheduled for March.

The planning assessment concluded that the proposal has 'merit' and is 'consistent with sustaining and growing its commercial and retail activities,' claiming that it will not have a negative impact on the area."

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