Retailer takes razor to signs

Erin Pearson
RETAIL giant Bunnings has slashed the size of its controversially proposed signs for the entrance to Torquay by more than half.
The company has also cut 3.6 metres from the height of its building proposed to face Surf Coast Highway from a new business park in the town’s north.
The building would now stand eight metres high under the amended plan lodged with Surf Coast Shire.
Bunnings also cut 135sqm from its sales area.
The company stirred community alarm when its initial plan proposed five signs exceeding existing Surf Coast planning guidelines limiting signage to 10sqm.
Residents feared the store and signs would create an unwelcome eyesore at the entrance to Torquay.
Torquay Mitre 10 operator Evan Crick said the plans still meant the town’s doorstep was set for big-box retail development.
“The whole crux of the matter is the (business park) was supposed to be hidden away and to be for service-type businesses rather than big-box development,” he said.
“What’s happening now wasn’t intended for the area. It will just drag other large businesses out there and take away from the cental part of Torquay.”
Mr Crick said Torquay businesses were scheduled to meet on Wednesday night to discuss the development.
The shire has made Bunnings’ amended plan available for inspection until August 9. Council will review the changes on August 25.
Surf Coast Shire refused to comment on the changes.