City’s $40m ‘plan’

Karen Hart
City Hall is planning a marina development worth up to $40 million at North Geelong.
Councillor Stretch Kontelj said the concept promised more than $130 million to the local economy and up to 1300 jobs.
Councillors will debate the plan at a meeting next week.
Plans for the site, near the end of Mackey Street, include further restoration and opening up of heritage-listed Osborne House, a four-star motel, cafes, restaurants and a 200-berth commercial marina.
“This proposal has real merit, it’s got legs and would be economically sustainable,” Cr Kon-telj said.
“It’s got great appeal generally for the community and would be very important for the Geelong region both economically and from a tourism prospective.”
Cr Kontelj said the project would have to reclaim six hectares of bayfront land.
“Up to 200 boats could be stored on the water and on land and we estimate the whole proposal would cost in the region of over $40 million,” he said.
“Obviously, some council funds would be used but we hope to get State Government funding and also private funding. It will be a public/private partnership.”
Council would put the plans out for public consultation if it decided to go ahead with the project, Cr Kontelj said.
Cr Tony Ansett said the project would save historic Osborne House, potentially for a reception centre and restaurant.
The surrounding park could also house an outdoor café for alfresco dining.
The house would stay in public hands if the project went ahead, Cr Ansett said.
“Anything that is done to Osborne House would be done in keeping with its character and heritage,” Cr Ansett said.
“The site and its surrounding would be utilised more by the public under this proposal.
“I’ve spoken to many people in my ward and they fully support the development.
“It will be fantastic for the area and will essentially be a continuation of the waterfront.”