By PAUL MILLAR
TAKING charge of planning for major projects in central Geelong is a helping hand rather than strong-arm tactics from State Government, according to Darryn Lyons.
The Geelong mayor, often at odds with the region’s state and federal politicians, welcomed this week’s announcement, saying it would speed up progress on city projects.
“The Central Geelong Taskforce was moving things too slowly and I want things done quicker. This will give it a big nudge and get things moving,” Cr Lyons told the Independent.
The taskforce was formed to oversee the development of business incentives and programs and to identify events and activities to add vitality to the heart of the city.
But Cr Lyons said progress was too slow under the direction of the taskforce, so he supported the Government’s intervention.
The Government will install an authority to take charge of major development projects including Kardinia Park, Geelong Performing Arts Centre’s redevelopment and proposals for a convention centre. The authority was a pre-election commitment to help the rejuvenation of central Geelong.
Cr Lyons said the Government now had to lead the way in central Geelong “quick-time”.
“It’s fantastic that they’re focused on Geelong. As the mayor, I’ve been lobbying for more projects and will continue to do so.’
Premier Daniel Andrews said the city area needed more than words and plans.
“It needs action. Traders are losing patience, locals are losing faith and Geelong is losing time,” Mr Andrews said.
“The Authority will get the right people in the right place to make the right decisions,” he said.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said action was “long overdue”.
“This will clean up Geelong’s CBD and attract the investment we need to get moving.”
