GORCAPA to demolish Lorne Fishing Co-op building

THE Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) will demolish the Lorne Fishing Co-operative building at Point Grey, and has released technical assessments stating “the building has reached the end of its useful life”.

The release of the assessments is the latest step in the long-running plan to redevelop the Point Grey Precinct.

Despite opposition from some in the Lorne community who would like to see the Co-Op structure preserved in some way, GORCAPA has repeatedly stated the 1949-era building has sustained significant damage due to its age and proximity to the shoreline.

To support this, GORCAPA published a Structural Integrity Report, a Asbestos Survey and Risk Assessment and two Building Condition Reports on the Point Grey Redevelopment website on Friday last week.

According to the authority, the reports find the Co-Op building is “unsafe for future use”, with issues including:

Severe corrosion affecting key structural elements
Structural compromises such as roof sagging, water damage, and beam deterioration
Widespread asbestos and outdated pitch-based switchboards
Non-compliance with existing Australian Standards, including concrete slab deficiencies, and
Lack of disability access.

As previously announced, all existing tenants of the Co-Op building have until May 31 to vacate. After this, GORCAPA will formally assume occupancy of the site “to commence early works in preparation for demolition”, including removing asbestos and recovering historical materials.

GORCAPA announced last month that it would release a draft Urban Design Framework for the precinct in June for public feedback.

“The Co-Op building has long been part of Lorne’s backdrop for generations, and while it’s never easy to say goodbye to something so familiar the expert assessments are clear — the building is no longer safe or fit for purpose,” GORCAPA interim chief executive officer Christine Ferguson said.

“We’re taking a thoughtful, respectful approach to demolition, ensuring that the site’s history is honoured and preserved wherever possible.

“We recognise and understand the deep connection many have to this place, and we are committed to working alongside the community as we shape a future that honours Lorne’s past and meets the needs of future generations.”

For more information, head to haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/point-grey-redevelopment