Five-storey building proposal divides Portarlington

A NEW development proposed by the City of Greater Geelong could see a new multi-level building erected along Portarlington’s main street.

The town’s commercial strip could soon feature two new shops, 13 apartments and underground parking as a part of the Newcombe Street development.

It is believed the development will benefit the community through increased tourism and commercial opportunities, while helping to alleviate some parking pressure.

The current design features a five-story building to take the place of empty allotments located at number 49 Newcombe Street.

Despite public submissions being closed as of December 29, 2020, residents have been encouraged to attend an upcoming town meeting hosted by the Portarlington Community Association.

The meeting regarding the development will be attended by both the developers and Geelong councillors.

It is currently unknown how many submissions were received by council however the online response from the community has been divided.

Some residents have taken to the community Facebook page to express their distaste for the building stating it will change the ambience of the town centre, as others claim developers are destroying the hidden gem that is the Bellarine Peninsula.

Further concerns have emerged over the apartment rooms which will be situated on the top few floors of the building and will look down onto the nearby kindergarten.

Other residents have welcomed the opportunity for the coastal town to progress with new opportunities in employment and tourism.

The town meeting will be held at 7pm on Wednesday, January 20, at Parks Hall on Newcombe Street.

Due to a limit on numbers permitted to be in the hall, residents must register their attendance via email.

To attend the meeting contact: [email protected].