Growth ‘options’ out for comment

By John Van Klaveren
BY JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A lobby group has developed three “scenarios” to guide the region’s growth.
G21 HEAD Elaine Carbines said the scenarios described possible futures for the region as it grew to an expected population of 500,000 by 2050.
“The Geelong region is growing at an impressive rate. We need to make sure we manage this growth,” Ms Carbines said.
“G21 is doing this through the development of the regional growth plan.
We’ve already engaged with stakeholders from state and local government as well as community, business and development groups. We now need feedback from the wider community.
“This is critical to ensure the G21 regional growth plan truly reflects how we, the people of the region, want it to look like in the future.”
Ms Carbines said the scenarios proposed “growing in”, “shared” growth or “new communities” between existing population centres.
“In scenario one, our region grows in and up, not out. People would be living in apartments and townhouses, close to public transport and shops, spending less time in cars.
“Scenario two envisages population and growth shared across the region along transport corridors. Employment opportunities would grow in Colac, Torquay and central Geelong.
“Growing out would see growth in new communities along the edge of Geelong, connecting with Torquay, Leopold and Lara, using more land for housing.
Ms Carbines said residents would be able to provide feedback in a series of workshops, listening posts and an online discussion forum.
She encouraged attendance at workshops in Bannockburn, Belmont, Colac, Geelong and Winchelsea.
“We’ll also be available to listen to the community’s feedback at 30 different listening posts across the region. If you’re unable to participate in the activities we encourage you to join our online forum at www.G21regionalgrowthplan.com.au.
“The feedback we receive from this community engagement process will shape the draft G21 regional growth plan.”
Ms Carbines said a draft of the plan will be available in April.