Council: Development no threat to Heads character

CREATING more higherdensity living options in Barwon Heads does not threaten the town’s atmosphere, the council argues.

On the first day of a panel hearing into Barwon Heads’ structure plan, the City of Greater Geelong argued that more multistorey development was “not outcome”.

The council’s submission also described opposition to infill development — based on the assumption it would change the village’s character — as “somewhat misguided”.

“It is not possible or appropriate to stop growth and Barwon Heads will continue to change and renew,” the council said. an undesirable

An independent panel is considering a range of initiatives — including expanding the urban zone — as part of a blueprint that would guide development in Barwon Heads until 2032.

The draft structure plan notes there are enough vacant lots to meet housing demand for only 4-5 years.

Landowners and developers on the western fringe of town are circling with major projects, with the potential to add hundreds of new homes.

The council is resisting the calls for change, arguing there is “overwhelming and passionate support” to retain the current settlement boundary.

The council also notes that the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and the Department of Environ- ment, Land, Water and Planning want to retain the boundary.

Arguing against succumbing to population growth pressures, the council points to “substantial amounts” of newly created residential land in Ocean Grove and Armstrong Creek.

“In the context of Barwon Heads, it is unlikely that providing additional land will have a marked impact on affordability,” the council said.

Other parties to present to the panel in coming days include the Mid West Group, which owns 39ha on the north side of Barwon Heads Rd.

The panel hearing is scheduled to run for seven days and finish on August 30.

After considering submissions, the panel will make a recommendation.