IN FANTASTIC news for the growing community around Drysdale, construction of stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre is scheduled to begin later this year.<\/p>\n
Thanks to $40 million from the Australian and Victorian governments, the second phase of the project will add two new indoor pools, along with a gym, two group fitness rooms and a caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n
Stage one of the aquatic centre has already been a major success, with the outdoor 50-metre pool proving so popular that Council extended its opening hours into the winter months last year.<\/p>\n
The next phase will build on this momentum and enable people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the health benefits of swimming all year round.<\/p>\n
Stage two includes a 25-metre indoor pool and a warm water exercise pool to complement the existing outdoor pool and provide access to first-class fitness, rehabilitation and learn-to-swim services.<\/p>\n
Notably, both pools will include accessible entry points, making them user-friendly for seniors, people with disabilities and those recovering from injury.<\/p>\n
The state and federal governments have each committed $20 million to the project, with the City of Greater Geelong putting forward up to $300,000.<\/p>\n
The funding comes after extensive community advocacy and hard work by all three levels of government to make this vision a reality.<\/p>\n
The next step in the process is the development of detailed designs, with construction scheduled for completion in late 2027.<\/p>\n
Have your say \u2013 Proposed sale of land in Ocean Grove<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Bellarine Peninsula residents have an important opportunity to shape another key project in the region.<\/p>\n
The City of Greater Geelong is currently seeking community feedback on the proposed sale of two blocks of council-owned land in Ocean Grove.<\/p>\n
The City is considering selling:<\/p>\n
* A reserve, measuring approximately 380 square metres at 94 The Parade, Ocean Grove, which would first be rezoned from public park and recreation zone (PPRZ) to commercial 1 zone (C1Z), and<\/p>\n
* Land being used as a carpark, measuring approximately 1,623 square metres at 89-91 The Terrace, Ocean Grove, which is zoned C1Z. If sold, the land will be incorporated into the development of the adjoining land.<\/p>\n
The proceeds from the land sales would be reinvested into improving public spaces throughout Ocean Grove.<\/p>\n
Provisions of the sale will also ensure no net loss to the current number of car parking spaces in any redevelopment.<\/p>\n
Community input is essential to ensure the best outcome. Whether you support the sale or have concerns, now is the time to give your feedback.<\/p>\n
The Have Your Say process is essential to ensure we hear all the community’s views.<\/p>\n
Head to the City’s website and give your feedback before 5pm on Monday, March 31 at yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au\/proposed-land-sale-ocean-grove<\/p>\n
Cr Elise Wikinson<\/p>\n
Connewarre Ward,<\/p>\n
City of Greater Geelong<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
IN FANTASTIC news for the growing community around Drysdale, construction of stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre is scheduled to begin later this year. Thanks to $40 million from the Australian and Victorian governments, the second phase of the project will add two new indoor pools, along with a gym, two group fitness […]<\/p>\n