The proposed hub would include five soccer pitches, amenities and car parking at Old Emerald Road in Monbulk.

All councillors except Jeanette McRae last week voted in favour of asking Planning Minister Matthew Guy to appoint an independent panel to hear submissions for and against development.

Ms Bakker said she was pleased with the decision as it gave objectors the chance to state their case.

"We totally understand the need for the facility, but having said that, there are existing facilities we feel could be upgraded."

Some of the objections to the development relate to noise, light, traffic, infrastructure, zoning and the size of the development.

Ms Bakker said the concerns of nearby residents should be taken seriously.

"One hundred per cent of neighbours surrounding the proposed facility object, so we have to be taken seriously," she said.

The Yarra Ranges planning scheme prevents development at the site because it falls within a green wedge zone. A zoning amendment classifying the site as a public park and recreation zone would be needed for the development of the soccer club.

Monbulk Soccer Club chairwoman Lisa Doolan said the club had needed new facilities for about five years.

"We've been waiting a long time and are feeling determined. It is not up to us where the facility is positioned but we have a desperate need for new facilities."

Monbulk Soccer Club has more than 600 players and is one of the largest soccer clubs in Victoria with more than 40 teams.

Five different facilities are used to meet demand in the Yarra Ranges.

Ms Doolan said there are very few locations in the region that were suitable for the proposed complex. "The majority of people in town want the plans to go ahead. There is a lot of support in the community."