Submissions close on Central Geelong Framework Plan

THE window for public submisssions to the Central Geelong Framework Plan has closed, and the advisory committee is preparing for a directions hearing later this month to lay out the next steps.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning has prepared the draft Central Geelong Framework Plan and proposed planning controls to provide a refresh of the planning framework for Geelong’s city centre and guide future land use and development for the next 30 years.

The city centre’s population is expected to increase from 2,000 now to more than 12,000 in three decades and provide employment and services for more than 35,000 people.

The independent Central Geelong Framework Plan Advisory Committee has been appointed by Victoria’s Planning Minister to review the draft plan and proposed planning controls, and prepare advice for their strategic basis and merits, and possible improvements.

The committee opened submissions on May 25 and closed them on Wednesday last week.

Ahead of the public hearing at which submitters can request to be heard, scheduled to start in the week of September 6 and run for up to six weeks, the committee will hold a directions hearing on July 28 to make the necessary arrangements and timetable for the public hearing.

If hearings are held in person, they are likely to be convened in Geelong at a venue to be determined, or by video conference if COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. Some sessions may also be held in Melbourne.

Submitters who have requested to be heard or kept informed will be advised of the venue in advance of hearings.

The committee is required to provide a report with recommendations to the Minister within 40 business days from the completion of hearings.

For more information on the Central Geelong Framework Plan, the directions and public hearings, or to download the draft plan, head to the Engage Victoria website.