By NOEL MURPHY
A NEW BLUEPRINT for Torquay proposes to revamp its commercial heart, triple its car parking and build 300 multi-level units facing Taylor Park.
Torquay – A Town for Tomorrow Action Agenda also wants 30 new “eclectic and boutique” businesses in the central business area within five years.
Torquay Commerce and Tourism (TCT) president Barrie Sutherland said the action agenda aimed to build on Torquay’s surfing culture and
relaxed, casual character.
The group wanted to plot Torquay’s destiny rather leave it to outside influences, Mr Sutherland said.
The action agenda calls for the Gilbert St commercial centre to be redeveloped within three years, Taylor Park to be “vitalised” within five and for improved connections between the foreshore’s Elephant Walk and the retail area.
TCT has asked Surf Coast Shire to form a “central business joint working group” to ensure the area was “sustainable, vibrant and meet(s) future needs”.
The group also wanted State Government funding for research, expert advice, community consultation and infrastructure and streetscape plans.
An action agenda report said Torquay’s central business area was in “desperate need” of review “from a policy and business prosperity perspective”.
“Initiatives must be developed that create a climate for investment and facilitate the development of a unique set of businesses where residents and visitors will want to return.”
Mr Sutherland said the action agenda was geared to preserve and build on the character of Torquay.
“It’s about playing to your strengths,” he said.
“In the same way Geelong’s CBD can’t compete with Melbourne, retail shopping at Torquay can’t compete with Waurn Ponds or Geelong. We should forget about competing when we already have things like the best discounts, the plaza and lifestyle.
“For example, when the surf’s up at Bells a lot of people at Rip Curl and other businesses will be there at lunch. If the tide’s right and the swell’s right, I’m off – it’s about building lifestyle into the workplace.”
