Survey reveals street upgrades top list of residents’ concerns

A SHORT social media-based survey has revealed that Ocean Grove residents want Grubb Road/
Tuckfield Street upgraded in the coming term of government.

The survey, which was organised by the Ocean Grove Community Association, also highlighted
the next top issues were fixing the Orton Street/ President Avenue intersection now, and building the Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network.

Sixty people took part in the survey, with 91 per cent from the 3226 postcode, and residents were also given the opportunity to share their concerns.

One responder said, “All issues are from overcrowding. Too much traffic, not enough parking, etc… maybe we can build a school and supermarkets in places that are needed”.

Another said, “Improving bike paths round Ocean Grove and linking local towns would be great to encourage health and fitness of all ages – including safety for children who cycle to school”.

The OGCA will host a Candidates Community Forum on November 14 at the Ocean Grove Bowls Club from 7pm, where residents will get the chance to question candidates vying for the upcoming state election.

Chairperson Phil Edwards said one of the issues raised would be the Bellarine Aquatic & Sports Centre (BASC).

“The BASC was opened in December 2008 with a range of indoor aquatic and sports facilities, including the main pool of only 25 metres in length,” Mr Edwards said.

“Within four years it was so popular that it reached capacity and now results in people living
on the Bellarine Peninsula having to go into Geelong for swimming activities.

“During peak time residents are being turned away.

“When the facility was constructed the City of Greater Geelong (COGG) Council developed a design that allowed the main pool to be extended by 25 metres to the west to create 50-metre long pool.”

Mr Edwards said the desired outcome would be the commitment to work with the COGG Council (and federal government where appropriate) to cooperatively fund the extension of the existing main pool to create a 50-metre-long pool and to upgrade/expand the change room facilities.

He said the estimated cost could be in the order of $2 million to $3 million.

Mr Edwards has invited candidates to consider and well residents their position on all or some of the issues.