By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
CREATION of a medical precinct, business hubs, residential developments and office space are among potential uses for up to 10 council-owned sites in central Geelong.
City Hall hopes a $120,000 investigation into its under-used sites will give central Geelong’s revitalisation a shot in the arm, according to Cr Michelle Heagney.
The planning and central Geelong portfolio-holder said the investigation, due to report in May, would contain professional advice on the best redevelopment for each site.
The sites under investigation include Haymarket car park, Lt Ryrie St car park, a civic and government accommodation site in Mercer St, Lt Malop St car park, Civic Centre car park, Busport and Geelong Railway Station.
Cr Heagney said Haymarket could lend itself to development of a medical precinct linking St John of God and Geelong hospitals.
Busport had capacity to add to its height to extend its development opportunities, she said.
“We want to know what kinds of development might bring jobs to Geelong,” Cr Heagney said.
“We’re seeking expert advice about what would be the best outcome for central Geelong if we put sites out for an expression of interest.
“We’ll get expert property development advice about what makes sites attractive, what potential uses might be and what density might be best.
“We’re looking for advice on which ones to do first because we can’t do them all at once.
“These are large parcels of council land in central Geelong and we want to make sure we get it right because we can only develop them once.”
Cr Heagney said after the report was completed council could consider how to manage sites with existing uses such as car parking.
Council would also consider the best approach to redevelopments, including City Hall managing the projects, putting sites out to tender or instituting a public-private partnership, she said.
Mayor Darryn Lyons believed that Geelong must “look creatively and commercially” at central city land.
“I’ve got big plans for Geelong and a dynamic city heart will be at the centre of our success.
“Now’s the time for change and we need to look creatively and commercially at these sites that have huge potential.”
