Works on Apollo Bay harbour redevelopment continue

WORK is continuing on the redevelopment of the Apollo Bay harbour precinct despite appearances, with the Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-Op building vacated ahead of major upgrades.

Structural engineers have now confirmed requirements for the redevelopment while the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) carries out additional cultural heritage assessments and detailed planning.

All historic refrigeration units have been taken out, including the safe removal of a large amount of ammonia – used by the old fridges – that was stored on site.

Major construction on the project will begin in April.

The co-op’s previous tenants have relocated to two pop-up locations in Apollo Bay – at 18 Pascoe Street and 57 Great Ocean Road – and are still serving customers fish and chips and fresh seafood, respectively.

In the next few months, early works and demolition of the depot area will be complete, including the safe removal of all asbestos on site.

Major construction will begin in April, with the site then closed off to the public for safety, including the Mothers Beach carpark that will be used by the contractor.

Works will include upgrades to the Co-Op and a new outdoor viewing deck.

The community will still be able to get access to Mothers Beach and the harbour sea wall during construction via an alternate access track and the nearby Point Bunbury boat ramp will remain open throughout.

The Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-Op building at the harbour has been vacated ahead of major upgrades.

The redevelopment is funded through the Geelong City Deal and will deliver new public open space, upgrades to the Co-Op, a new outdoor viewing deck, a new hospitality space, the return of the wet fish market, improvements to the Port Operations Depot and a new public toilet with a Changing Places restroom.

“While it may appear quiet on the outside at the moment, there is a power of work underway preparing the site for major works to get under way in April,” GORCAPA chief executive officer Christine Ferguson said.

“This is going to be such a great addition to Apollo Bay and a real asset for locals and visitors alike.”

For more information, head to greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/Projects/Great-Ocean-Road-Geelong-City-Deal-projects/Apollo-Bay-Harbour-Redevelopment