TCT backs Torquay Town Centre changes

TORQUAY Commerce and Tourism (TCT) is broadly supportive of the recommendations proposed in the Torquay Town Centre Project, saying the changes will support businesses and encourage jobs.

The Surf Coast Shire has called for submissions to the project, which will guide the future development of the precinct over the next 20 years so it remains the shire’s primary activity centre and can cater for the town’s 30,000 people.

TCT has made a submission, which president Barrie Sutherland said was committed to create new opportunities to cope with this future growth through carefully considered infrastructure and design guidelines.

“The challenge in this future planning will be to retain the essence of Torquay and ensure future growth is managed in a way the broader community and business can work together to create opportunities, business development and new job creation.”

He said parking and managing the height of future buildings were critical issues.

However, TCT supports – in specific areas – buildings of up to five storeys providing they are aesthetically pleasing and had setbacks from the foreshore, as well as the need for further consideration details to manage future parking.

“We support new landscaping in Gilbert Street and making Gilbert Street a one-way street towards the foreshore, giving the town centre a focus on pedestrians with the reduction of vehicle traffic. This concept was supported by previous surveys independently undertaken by TCT a few years ago,” Mr Sutherland said.

“TCT believes in constant communication from the council so as future plans develop more detail, there is adequate time for comment and continuous improvement so the end results for the town centre can benefit the residents, business and visitors.

“It is in all our best interests to have an outstanding town centre that residents can be proud of and it is important for TCT to contribute leadership in defining the vision and working towards the future town centre where our business community can be successful.”

For more information on the Torquay Town Centre Project, head to surfcoastconversations.com.au.