A salon owner in Melbourne, Shaylan, has been compelled to leave her business, leading to potential losses exceeding $150,000 due to a zoning issue. After leasing the premises in July and spending three months on renovations, she was informed by the council that the site was solely designated for hospitality ventures, not a hair salon. Shaylan expressed her distress, stating that the ordeal has taken a toll on her mental health, and reflected that she shouldn’t have been considered for the location originally.
Currently, Shaylan finds herself in debt and is contemplating selling her home or car. She is in negotiations with both the local council and her landlord to seek financial reimbursement for her losses. Property lawyer Justin Lawrence has indicated that Shaylan may have a strong legal case in this matter.
The Frankston Council has asserted that it is the responsibility of landlords and tenants to ensure compliance with local planning regulations when establishing a business. To support Shaylan, they have proposed a six-month exemption to permit her to operate from her current location until an alternative site is found. Additionally, they are providing a $5,000 grant to assist with signage for her new location.
In a statement, Frankston City Council CEO Phil Cantillon emphasised ongoing communication with Shaylan to facilitate her business’s relocation and underscored the importance of the planning scheme for managing land use within the municipality. He noted that any rezoning process requires extensive approval and is unlikely under current circumstances. The council remains committed to assisting Shaylan during her transition to a new venue.