‘Competition’ set for Creek: 2200-lot development revealed

By Michelle Herbison
A NEW 2200-lot residential development at Mt Duneed will introduce competition for buyers to Geelong’s Armstrong Creek growth area, according to an industry group.
Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) executive director Tony de Domenico said Villawood Properties’ Armstrong development would enhance the area and attract more buyers.
“If it’s anything like some of the other Villawood developments it will be different, sustainable, affordable and very attractive,” he said.
Villawood revealed last Friday its development plans to eventually house more than 8000 residents on the Armstrong site.
Armstrong would include two hectares of wetlands and sculptures, a restaurant precinct, primary and high schools, sport facilities and a residents-only health club.
Villawood executive director Rory Costelloe said the development would be the largest at Armstrong Creek and in the best location.
The site was adjacent to a proposed “major activity centre” and a 10-minute drive from central Geelong and beaches, he said.
A Villawood brochure for builders said the company expected council to approve a structure plan for the area in August or September.
Titles on Armstrong’s first display village were expected in late 2013, with a display village launch set for the second half of 2014.
Armstrong would be the first in Australia to offer a car-free “green street” for its display village.
Mr Costelloe said registrations of interest for potential purchasers would officially begin on September 1.
The Independent reported in September a Housing Industry Association warning that Geelong faced a shortfall of up to 6000 homes in the next decade.
But HIA economist Geordan Murray said large estates like Armstrong Creek would mitigate the problem.