The balance of progress and preservation

SINCE being elected to Council, one of my key areas of focus has been balancing progress with preservation.

It’s not always an easy balance, but it’s something I think about with every decision I make as a councillor.

We have a responsibility to protect what matters most to our residents, which is why we are actively listening to the wider Bellarine community on protecting the environment and character that make this part of the world so special.

As many of you will know, there has been strong community opposition to the proposed development of a Coles supermarket at 2341–2349 Bellarine Highway, Point Lonsdale.

An online petition opposing the development has gathered more than 4,300 signatures, which is more than the population of Point Lonsdale.

The petition raises a range of concerns, including the potential impact on the neighbouring Ramsar-listed wetlands.

According to research by the Swan Bay Environment Association, the block is home to significant indigenous plants as well as at least 22 different species of birds.

Some community members also believe that building a new supermarket would place pressure on existing local businesses, including the independent grocery store and other small retailers.

These small businesses help give Point Lonsdale its character, supporting local jobs and contributing to the sense of community the town is known for.

Many people choose to live on the Bellarine because it offers something different from metropolitan Melbourne and that difference is worth protecting.

Recently, the City of Greater Geelong joined with the Borough of Queenscliffe to work with the Department of Transport and Planning to consider how the Bellarine Peninsula Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) can be implemented in Point Lonsdale.

The Bellarine Peninsula was declared a Distinctive Area and Landscape in 2019 in recognition of the region’s significant coastal, landscape and environmental values.

The Statement of Planning Policy was implemented into the planning scheme in February and includes a Protected Settlement Boundary to limit further expansion.

The review by both councils will consider what additional changes may be needed to properly reflect the intent of this policy, including potential zone and overlay changes.

This work will help make sure our planning framework reflects the long-term vision for the Bellarine and gives the community greater certainty.

As Chair of the Geelong Heritage Advisory Committee, I care deeply about protecting the character of special places.

It’s critical to note that, while the proposed site of the Coles supermarket sits just within the City of Greater Geelong boundary, it is likely that a planning application, if submitted, would sit with the Victorian Government.

I have heard from many residents on this issue, and I will continue to advocate for the concerns they have raised.

It is up to us to ensure our region’s character is preserved for future generations because once the character of places like Point Lonsdale is lost, it is incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to get it back.