VCAT upholds city’s approval of IGA development

THE Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has approved the modified $10 million plans to build apartments above the IGA supermarket in Barwon Heads.

The City of Greater Geelong originally approved the plans by Cowley Holdings Pty Ltd to expanded the supermarket and develop four dwellings at 3 Bridge Road in 2017.

The proponents then applied to amend the planning permit to vary the supermarket expansion, licensed area and develop two more apartments, as well as construct a basement car park with 29 spaces.

The city granted an amended permit in July 2020, but neighbouring residents James Garvey and Andrea Downie took the matter to VCAT on grounds mostly relating to the proposal’s parking and traffic impacts.

According to the ruling handed down by VCAT member Jane Tait on April 16, Mr Garvey and Mrs Downie argue the council erred in granting such a large dispensation for car parking used by supermarket customers as the area already suffered from significant parking and traffic congestion.

In her ruling, Ms Tait said she understood the objectors’ concerns about the problems that arose from excessive on-street parking demand during peak holiday times and weekends.

“I note that all parties agree that this occurs during these periods. However … it is not practical or recommended to design for the busiest day/weekend of the year.

“I am satisfied the parking surveys indicate that even during peak periods, there is alternative parking available in the vicinity of the subject site to accommodate supermarket customers.”