Uni yet to see ‘sensible’ convention centre plans

Deakin University would consider any “sensible” plan to use its waterfront car park for a Geelong convention centre, according to Vice-Chancellor Jane den Hollander.
But the university had yet to receive any “offer” for the prime site or see any proposal for the long-proposed convention centre, she said.
Ms den Hollander was responding to a front-page Geelong Indy story about a state MP asking the Andrews government to secure the car park for the convention and exhibition centre.
Western Victoria MP Simon Ramsay wanted the state to consider using “compulsory acquisition” powers if Deakin refused a proposed swap of the site for City Hall’s Busport building.
Local lobby groups including Geelong Chamber of Commerce consider the car park to be the only viable option for the convention centre.
But Deakin had yet to see any plans for the centre, Ms den Hollander said.
“Despite much public commentary on the site’s suitability for a convention centre, Deakin University has never had an offer from any interested parties, from either the private or government sector, wanting to develop such a project on our land.
“Nor have we ever seen a business case, or proposal, to support such a centre.
“However, we have been on the public record to say that we would support the development of a sensible strategic plan for Geelong, which would highlight the best opportunities for the city, ensuring the future of the region.”
Deakin would “always support positive developments in the interest of Geelong and its future”, Ms den Hollander said.
“If a sensible, affordable plan that is aligned to the future of Geelong and meets the needs of a university town is put forward for a convention centre that will deliver the best return then I will be pleased to take a proposal to my council for their consideration.”
Geelong has been lobbying for a major convention centre since the 1950s.
The latest push began about a decade ago but has struggled to make headway without a preferred site.