Feedback about Apollo Bay harbour plan released

The Apollo Bay Harbour precinct redevelopment is part of the Geelong City Deal. Photo: GORCAPA

FEEDBACK is in about the plans to develop the Apollo Bay Harbour precinct.

The project, part of the Geelong City Deal, aims to revitalise the precinct, providing safer and more equitable public access to the coastline and available recreational activities as well as improved public use and amenity.

The redevelopment will also improve the safety and operations of commercial activities, including fishing, and industrial uses in the precinct, and provide benefits for the economy through both tourism and operational enhancements.

Earlier this month, the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) released an engagement report outlining community values and feedback received from the public on the draft precinct plan.

Between May 7 and June 1, 13 local information sessions and meetings were held, with more than 100 survey responses and submissions received.

The feedback from these sessions and meetings included:

A strong desire to protect the harbour’s authentic character and working identity while promoting the area’s Aboriginal cultural heritage and local maritime history

The need for practical, accessible public amenities, improved pedestrian safety and connectivity; and careful management of vehicle access

The desire for sensitive upgrades to the Co-Op and Depot buildings, and Support for continued access to Mothers Beach.

GORCAPA stated feedback will inform the final plan, helping to ensure that future upgrades reflect community needs while respecting the harbour’s unique identity and setting.

The final plan, as well as detailed designs, will be released next month.

“Thanks to everyone for their great feedback,” GORCAPA chief executive officer Christine Ferguson said.

“It is clear locals want to see this project get moving and they have given us some invaluable advice about how to deliver it in a way that reflects their aspirations for this iconic site.”

For more information on the redevelopment, head to haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/AB-harbour