Geelong council has released a planning scheme amendment which will govern the future development of Pakington Street and Gordon Avenue.
The amendment, if adopted, will implement two urban design frameworks (UDFs), the Pakington St and Gordon Ave UDF and the Pakington North UDF, both approved by the council in 2024.
Covering the Pakington North, Pakington Heritage Core and Gordon Avenue precincts, the proposed amendment includes zoning changes, a new Design and Development Overlay (DDO), the application of the Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) to designated properties and changes to local policies.
The amendment seeks to balance the competing objectives of providing accommodation options for growing populations in Geelong’s inner areas and respecting the heritage values of the Geelong West area.
According to council communications, the amendment would see the Pakington Heritage Core precinct “protected and enhanced through modest growth”, while Pakington North and Gordon Avenue would feature mid-rise, mixed-use development.
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj said Pakington Street was loved by the community.
“There are three distinct precincts: the Pakington Street heritage core, as well as frameworks for future new development and enhancement to Pakington North and Gordon Avenue, both which permit more housing,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“The amendment and all the supporting documentation can be viewed on our website, allowing the community to see exactly what has been proposed so they can make informed submissions.”
The developmental guidelines of the area have been many years in the making, with the Pakington North UDF initiated in 2018 and only adopted, after exhaustive community engagement, in 2024.
Chair of the City Planning portfolio Cr Andrew Katos encouraged everyone with an interest in future of the area to make a submission.
“This is an important moment in the history of Pako, and it will shape the precincts for future generations,” Cr Katos said.
“All submissions will be carefully considered, so ensure your submission is in before 1 September so that your views can be recorded and considered in the final outcome.”
Submissions on Amendment C433ggee are open until Monday, September 1, with the documents available for viewing online at geelongaustralia.com.au/amendments or in person at Wurriki Nyal or Geelong West Library.
