Fabbro’s Fields, the large creek-front paddock on Bell Street, Eltham, was once the site of a thriving market garden, Fabbro’s Farm. 

Chris Chapple of Local Food Connect and founder-manager of the Eltham Farmer's Market has been campaigning for an urban farm on the site for the best part of a decade. 

In this conversation, Dan Milne of Local Food Connect, explains the proposal, in the weeks before the following council decision was made.

The Council's decision in it's own words (the bolding of the text is mine):

The community were invited to have a say on the idea of operating an urban farm at 2 Bell Street, Eltham, known as Fabbro Fields from 29 June - 20 July 2023.

The consultation was to gauge general community support before proceeding any further.

The parcel of land at 2 Bell Street, Eltham is currently used as open space, adjoining the Diamond Creek Trail and Diamond Creek. Council currently manages the site on behalf of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). 

...just over 53 per cent were generally in favour of the concept, while just over 46 per cent were not, indicating support for the proposal was not overwhelming.

Following consideration of feedback, Council has voted not to support the proposal of an urban farm at this site.

Councillors confirmed that this is not the appropriate parcel of land for an urban farm in the Shire.