Coker develops an argument about local concerns in Parliament

CORANGAMITE federal member Libby Coker has taken to Parliament to raise concerns about the need to strike a balance with developments in the region.

Ms Coker delivered a speech during last week’s meeting urging the City of Greater Geelong and developers to not pre-empt the state government’s Distinctive Area and Landscapes process.

“Time after time, the issue at the forefront of people’s minds is inappropriate development,” she said.

“This is especially true on the Bellarine and in the Surf Coast in towns like Torquay, Ocean Grove, Drysdale, Portarlington and Leopold.”

Ms Coker referred the Parliament’s attention to the town meeting that took place in Portarlington last month, where community members rallied together to object the proposed development on 49 Newcombe Street.

“At the heart of their concern is a proposal to build a five-storey apartment complex on the Portarlington foreshore,” she said.

“The community strongly believe it will negatively impact on their town; however, it remains under consideration by the Geelong council.”

The Newcombe Street development received up to 120 objections from members of the community with reference to the height and position of the development as well as its impact on the town’s character.

“I understand that every property owner has the right to make a proposal. I also believe the council must balance economic development with protection of coastal character and community aspirations,” Ms Coker said.

“That balance is only possible when the local community – the people who live and love these towns – is heard.”

The Portarlington development is not the only project Ms Coker has been vocal about – she also
called on Planning Minister Richard Wynne to halt the city’s decision to allow a high-density housing development to be erected in Drysdale.

Under amendment C363, the council approved the rezoning of 28 rural living properties into 550 residential dwellings, which locals say will destroy the character of town.

Planning portfolio chair Cr Kylie Grzybek, said the decision was especially difficult considering the community backlash.

The city’s director of planning, design and development, Gareth Smith, said councillors wee bound by the Local Government Act to have an open mind and act impartially before considering an application.

“Councils will continue to assess and determine applications for planning permits based on the existing planning scheme provisions The Statement of Planning Policy will be factored into assessment of all new planning application once it is in effect.”