$40m civic precinct: Cheap homes in plan

Alex de Vos
“Affordable housing” will line a $40 million civic precinct at the northern entry to Torquay, Surf Coast Shire has revealed.
Shire project officer Jeremy Minter said the housing would be apartments that could sit atop shops flanking the precinct as part of a Melbourne-inspired design.
“We’ve had a look at Melbourne and Wyndham city councils and developments like Caroline Springs – we’re aspiring to deliver this,” Mr Minter said.
“We want to make sure this is as good as it can be – the best use of space.
“We want it to define and reflect Torquay and we want something robust – money well-spent.”
Mr Minter unveiled a precinct master plan in front of councillors and residents at a community information session this week.
The precinct would feature “state-of-the-art” council offices, he said.
Other features to make the precinct a “one-stop-shop” for the community included public art, wetlands, meeting rooms, a reception centre, bike tracks and picnic facilities.
Mr Minter said the rear of the precinct included a school site.
The Independent revealed in April that economist and Surf Coast councillor Joe Remenyi predicted the final cost of the precinct, with state and federal contributions, could reach $80 million.
Cr Remenyi, who has worked with the United Nations and World Bank, said he was not convinced the plan was the “best way forward”. He suggested that the shire should have investigated cheaper sites.
Cr Lindsay Schroeter slammed the location after this week’s information sessions.
“I don’t think it’s in the right spot. It should be closer to the town centre,” he said.
Torquay resident Lyn Nugent, who attended the information session, said the plan failed to include “appropriate” facilities for the elderly and disabled.
“There is nothing in the plan for the elderly and disabled who can’t participate in sports,” Ms Nugent said.
“Those getting on aren’t capable of running around – I feel the older groups are missing out.”
Mayor Libby Mears said the shire would investigate “access” for the disabled and developing walking tracks for the elderly.
“It’s something we’ll look into,” Cr Mears said.
Stage one of the precinct, which comprises an Australian Rules football oval, a soccer pitch and six netball courts, is set for completion in March, 2011.