Shops, culture ‘set for north’

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A NEW commercial centre and a “landmark” arts and culture facility could emerge from a structure plan for Norlane and Corio, according to council.
Councillor Cameron Granger said City Hall had identified land opposite Bacchus Marsh Rd’s MC Herd abattoir as a potential site for the commercial centre.
“To stimulate investment and create local employment we will be encouraging a new business precinct,” he said.
“There have been a couple of attempts by developers to establish a business park and residential development there.
“It could be similar to the Beckley Park commercial area, so it might offer a furniture retailer or a small warehouse and shopfront or might accommodate online traders who need a base to operate from.
“It’s close to the Geelong ring road employment precinct, so it might have a milk bar or convenience stores to service that.”
Cr Granger said he wanted any development to leave MC Herd “unencumbered”.
“They might have plans to shift at some point but any shift should be well into the future without residential encroachments on their buffer zone.
“MC Herd provides the region with about 300 jobs and it’s important for the area and we want them to continue to trade.”
Ward councillor Kylie Fisher said an arts and culture centre was suggested for the “high-visibility location” of Norlane’s Waterworld.
“We would like a bolder look for Bacchus Marsh Rd (as) one of the main entry and exit points to Corio-Norlane.
“This involves the development of a formal boulevard between Corio Village and Waterworld.
“We’ve looked closely at Corio Shopping Centre and local shopping strips and can see opportunities for expansion, diversification and upgrades.”
Cr Fisher encouraged residents to comment on the draft structure plan.
State Government last week announced an $82 million housing plan for Norlane.
The Structure Plan will be on public display for 10 weeks from December 1 at the Corio Customer Service Centre and 131 Myers St, Geelong.
The plan is also available online at www.geelongaustralia .com.au/yoursay.