Feedback sought about Torquay SLSC’s redevelopment

COMMUNITY consultation has opened for Torquay Surf Life Saving Club’s proposal to redevelop its clubhouse.

Torquay SLSC is working with consulting firm Urbis on a project to update the club’s ageing facilities.

Club president Julian Sweeney said the existing clubhouse was “now failing the club and community”.

“The redevelopment will enable TSLSC to continue to deliver critical lifesaving services and training for the local community and visitors, contributing to visitor attraction and the liveability and lifestyle that Torquay is renowned for,”

“The redevelopment will enable the club to secure alternative revenue streams to help sustain the club’s growth and what it can deliver to its members and the Torquay community.

“It will enable a reduction in whole-of-life costs for the club with a new building focused on environmental sustainability.”

As part of the planning process, the club has launched a website with a redevelopment plan, which includes preliminary renders and floor plans by architectural firm FJC Studio, and a 10-question survey asking for community responses.

“The building is designed to respect and respond to its iconic, sensitive site, reflecting a strong connection to country and place and creating a beautiful building that the Torquay community can be proud of and enjoy for many years ahead, ” FJC Studio principal architect Geoff Croker said.

“The design has been carefully crafted to meet the highest environmental agenda, the functions of a contemporary surf lifesaving club as well as respecting the proud history of the club.

“Natural materials and forms have been utilised to work with the ocean responding to the surrounding climatic conditions.”

Urbis, which is running the public consultation on Torquay SLSC’s behalf, says it wants to hear from the Torquay and Surf Coast community to help inform the process of redeveloping the site.

“Torquay Surf Beach is an iconic destination and the closest beach to metropolitan Melbourne,” Urbis director Nat Anson said.

“The rapid population growth of the Surf Coast, Greater Geelong and western Melbourne applies significant additional pressure on the club to maintain beach safety.

“Broad community support for the redevelopment of the surf club will be vital to respond to the complex approvals process and allow a redevelopment that is fit-for-purpose, sustainable and provides adequate capacity for club operations.”

For more information, to download the redevelopment plan or answer the survey, head to engagetorquayslsc.com.au