Bolwarra Public School is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar upgrade, including the construction of 10 new permanent teaching spaces, new toilets, a new library and an upgrade to the administration building.

The controversial proposal sought approval to change the current construction hours from 7am to 5pm, and extend them another five hours to 10pm from Monday to Saturday – with no work on Sundays or public holidays.

Representing Andrew Martin Planning who prepared documentation for the application, Deb McKenzie said the extra hours were sought for the completion of internal works.

But resident Neil Raymond slammed the application, likening his plight to “David versus Goliath” ​while speaking on the matter at council’s meeting.

“I have been badgered and badgered by noise. I have had seven external windows closed since May. I cannot open five internal doors since the construction commenced,” he said.

“Why can’t the state government get this right? They’ve had years and years to plan Bolwarra Public School.”

The application was tipped for approval by council officers but Labor councillor Robert Aitchison pushed back and called for the application to be denied.

“I question as to why, at this stage, we need to go out and change the rules for a development,” Cr Aitchison said.

“I worry about the precedent this may set for our council. If there have been some extraneous circumstances … I’d understand.

“In this situation we’ve had fair weather, and I can’t see why this development should be behind schedule.

“I look at the residents and they have been through enough.”

Independent councillor Peter Garnham foreshadowed a motion to approve the application, but Cr Aitchison’s motion was successful.

It was supported by Labor councillors including mayor Loretta Baker, and Liberal councillor Ben Mitchell.

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