New chief plans a brighter future

John Van Klavern
LAND use and economic development are priorities for the new boss of the region’s strategic planning body.
And Elaine Carbines said G21 would oppose a State Government takeover of planning for the region.
Ms Carbines has taken over as chief executive officer of G21 from Andrew Scott. The alliance organisation works on planning the future of the region with funding from its five councils.
Ms Carbines, a former Labor MP, said strategic planning was the key to the region’s sustainable development.
“We’re doing a regional land use plan across all five municipalities which will earmark future residential, commercial, industrial and recreational development,” she said.
G21 had received state funding to produce an economic development in conjunction with the land use plan.
“State Government should have confidence in G21 and the Geelong region, that it is mature enough to follow due process,” Ms Carbines said.
“No where else in Victoria is regional planning done to this degree and even around Australia we’re regarded as being ahead on planning and regional strategy.”
Ms Carbines said G21 has also identified redevelopment of Geelong’s cultural precinct, including the city’s library, performing arts centre and gallery, as a priority project.
The region’s residence had developed a heightened awareness of their right to have their say on future development of the region, she said.
“Sometimes there has been a vacuum of information between the proponent (of development) and those affected. A vacuum will be filled by something and it’s not necessarily helpful,” Ms Carbine said.
“Misinformation and fear can build up but the element of community fear has to be worked through.
“I’m a strong believer in facts and consultation.”