By Luke Voogt
Multi-storey apartments near railway stations, police “supersites“ and electric trains to Melbourne are the future for Geelong, according an independent state authority.
Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year wish for key Geelong projects was part of a draft strategy for the state, said chief executive officer Michel Masson .
“The challenges we face over the next 30 years cannot be solved just by building new things,” he said.
“We have looked at ways to better manage demand and get the most out of existing infrastructure.”
Infrastructure Victoria wants new tracks and stations on the Melbourne line in the next five to 15 years to relieve commuter overcrowding.
The authority said duplicating the Geelong-Waurn Ponds line was a high priority and called for trains to the Surf Coast within 15 years to accommodate growth at Torquay and Armstrong Creek.
The draft strategy called for more “medium-density housing” near Geelong train stations and transport corridors to manage population growth.
The police supersites would complement new or upgraded courts in Geelong’s growth areas, the strategy said.
But Bellarine MP and state minister Lisa Neville said she was focussed on election commitments like a Drysdale bypass and extension of Geelong’s bypass to the Bellarine Peninsula.
The State Government had committed to infrastructure including Simonds Stadium’s redevelopment and various school and sport upgrades, she said.
“Our first regional assembly next week will also enable the community to have a say in what they see as future priorities for Geelong and the Bellarine.”
South Barwon MP Andrew Katos said the opposition would consider the recommendations before the 2018 election.
Some had merit but Torquay’s population had yet to warrant a railway line, he said.
“That’s something I’m fully intending to consult the local community about.”
Mr Katos was also wary of future governments closing local police stations to create the supersites.
“The local community would not support that.”
Infrastructure Victoria has called for public input on the draft.
