Blueprint for a bold future
cess of our city-region. Capitalising on Geelong’s role as a city that punches above its weight, the proposed framework considers a number of wide-ranging, tangible actions that will secure Geelong as a world-class second city.
With the city-region’s population estimated to grow to as much as 750,000 by 2050, Geelong needs to act now to ensure the foundations are in place for a successful and prosperous future for business and our community.
The blueprint was launched at the end of July and we’re already beginning to see decision-makers taking note of its suggested initiatives when considering tackling issues in Geelong.
There is extensive evidence that reducing car dependence and promoting sustainable alternatives has reaped rewards in other second cities. Developing infrastructure fitting for a fast-growth city is a key recommendation in the proposed framework.
We suggest faster-speed rail between Geelong and Melbourne, which would accelerate local growth. Investment needs to happen now and, in our pro-
“Developing infrastructure fitting for a fast-growth city is a key recommendation in the proposed framework.”
posed framework, we suggest relocating the Geelong Rail Stabling Yards from central Geelong to Waurn Ponds, as well as duplicating the rail track from South Geelong to Waurn Ponds.
This needs to happen immediately to improve services for the 50,000 passengers who use the V/Line services every weekday and to lay the foundations for future improvements, essential to meet population growth.
Our proposed framework also sets out the urgent need for the Victorian Planning Author- ity to take a more active role in Geelong’s housing and infrastructure future.
Recent figures from Domain Group found that Greater Geelong recorded the strongest house price growth in Victoria over the June quarter, showing that Geelong does not have time to waste. Planning for new greenfield residential estates needs to begin immediately.
The blueprint covers numerous other factors relating to urban planning and business growth with a view to encouraging all political parties to understand the merits of having a Second City policy for Victoria.
Following the launch in July, it is satisfying to see that many of our proposals are being recognised by the media and other influencers.
Victoria’s second city has much to be proud of, but in order to remain attractive and competitive it is vital that planning for the future starts now. Rebecca Casson is the Committee for Geelong chief executive. Follow the Committee for Geelong on Twitter @Comm4Geelong.