Childcare centres boost
Operators gear for growing population
CHILDCARE operators are seeking to capitalise on Geelong’s growth, with several planning permit applications before council.
It comes after four new centres in Armstrong Creek were approved by City of Greater Geelong in 2018.
There are currently three planning permit applications for childcare centres before the dence,” Mr McIntosh said. “I see my doctor at least once a month and I get my eyes tested regularly.
“As soon as I get weary I’ll get someone to chauffeur me.”
Queenscliff has 1182 drivers aged 70 or over, North Geelong has 2496, Torquay has 1993 and Geelong 1608.
Across Victoria, 85 per cent of drivers in the medical review system retain driving privileges with licence conditions.
Queenscliff council will host four weekly two-hour Wiser Driver workshops to refresh elderly drivers’ knowledge of the road rules.
Mayor Bob Merriman said the council developed the free Wiser Driver course to help older residents be safer and more confident on the road.
“Our Wiser Driver course is interactive and fun, and will give participants a refresher on recent changes to road rules, information about what to do in an emergency, and opportunities to practise safe driving techniques,” Cr Merriman said.
The October course is full, but residents who are interested in taking part in future courses can register their interest by calling 5258 4132. City of Greater Geelong, said council’s director of planning, design and development, Gareth Smith.
They include centres at Barton St, Bell Park and Station Lake Rd, Lara.
A childcare centre is also proposed for Christies Rd in Leopold.
“The childcare (centre) is proposed within the existing dwelling and a new entry is proposed into the existing living room,” the planning report for the Leopold centre says.
“Internally the space is being opened up into a large open classroom space with a separate staffroom and entry foyer.
“The childcare is a Montessori long daycare centre for children (aged) three and over that is proposed to operate with 33 children in total and would open between 7.30am — 6.30pm each day.”
Two childcare centres have been approved by the City of Greater Geelong so far this year.
A permit was issued for a Rollins Rd, Bell Post Hill, centre in July and another for a Ghazepore Rd, Waurn Ponds, centre this month.
Five planning permit application for childcare centres were approved last year, the four in Armstrong Creek and one in Grovedale. Geelong council approved 11 planning permit applications for childcare centres in 2017, and eight were approved in 2016.
Council opened its Armstrong Creek East Community Hub and Highton Child and Family Centre this year.
It is also building a child and family centre in Corio and integrated children’s centre in Drysdale, Mr Smith said.
Council will also acquire land for early learning centres in the Bell Park or Bell Post Hill area and St Leonards.