Labor’s latest soccer pitch
Highton strip.
In August, Geelong councillors refused the application, however, it’s understood the developer is planning to appeal the decision through the state’s planning tribunal.
As the appeal was being prepared, Labor last week introduced new planning laws allowing for greater height and density for aged care facilities.
As it stands, the planned Japara facility will be a three-storey development on top of a basement.
Locals have hit out at the planning changes, they fear could see the developer increase the proposal to five storeys.
Rick Whitworth, who lives behind the planned development on Remony Ave, said any Village shopping A TORQUAY soccer facility is in line for a $2 million upgrade under Labor’s latest pre-election promise.
The party is today set to announce its plans to splash cash on the Surf Coast Football Club’s Banyul-Warri Fields homeground.
The investment would see a new grandstand built at the ground, while the Grant Pavilion will get new clubrooms and extra change rooms.
The announcement comes as soccer experiences a major boom in participation rates, with more than 350,000 peo- building of that scale in a residential area would be “criminal” and “completely contrary” to proper town planning.
Mr Cheeseman did not respond to a question on whether he believed the Japara proposal was appropriate.
Mr Katos — who said the scale of the facility was not right for Highton — accused the Labor candidate of being “totally silent” on the development.
“What’s the difference between a five-storey residential development in Highton and Torquay?” Mr Katos said. “You must have a consistent stance in what you believe in.
“I tell you what, if someone puts a five-storey home in the heart of Torquay, he would be outraged, and so would the community for that matter.” ple playing the sport across the state.
“Victorians love their soccer, and Torquay is no exception — that’s why we’re upgrading Banyul-Warri Fields to give every player, volunteer, coach and fan the home base they deserve,” Minister for Sport John Eren said.
“Whether it’s better grounds or making sure women and girls have dedicated change rooms, we’re backing our soccer clubs to grow their ranks and help more people play the sports they love.”
Labor candidate for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman said the investment would complement $10 million both major parties have committed towards a new Torquay Aquatic Centre, to be built adjacent to Banyul-Warri Fields.
Club president Steve Christiu said he was grateful for the announcement.
“The funding will finally allow us to create a real clubroom and additional change facilities, and it all means more people participating and staying involved in a healthy community activity,” Mr Christiu said.