Point Grey design group begins meetings

A COMMUNITY panel has had its first meetings to decide on new plans for Lorne’s Point Grey precinct that will scrap a controversial “Beacon” building.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) canned plans for the divisive design and its redevelopment will incorporate the former Lorne’s Fishermen’s Co-Op, which it had previously slated for demolition.

GORCAPA agreed to form the community co-design group (CCDG) during consultation on the project earlier this year.

The planning panel comprises key stakeholders including GORCAPA project officers, architects, and representatives of Lorne community groups that have previously rallied against Point Grey plans.

Committee for Lorne chairman Ian Stewart was elected co-chair of the CCDG alongside GORCAPA chief Jodie Sizer.

He said Lorne panel members were optimistic of achieving a positive outcome working with the authority, which had showed greater willingness to incorporate community ideas during consultation this year.

“We’re working our hardest to try and retain and repurpose as much as we can to be as reflective as possible of our past,” Mr Stewart said.

“To have architects briefing community members and seeking their input, has gone a long way to rebuilding the relationships that need to be there to deliver a strong community outcome.”

Community representatives saw first drafts of potential plans on Friday, and Mr Stewart said GORCAPA has demonstrated its commitment to matching its vision with those of Lorne locals.

“It’s more aligned to the current theme of what’s there than anything that’s been presented in the past,” he said.

The authority has said it would reflect feedback received through the CCDG process in final plans.

“The CCDG will help inform and refine the Point Grey redevelopment design in order to activate the precinct and ensure the community’s aspirations are reflected in the development,” a spokesperson said.

The CCDG is due to finalise the new Point Grey plans by the end of February, with the authority keen to restart approval processes and start construction next year.

The $10 million Point Grey redevelopment will still include a new building for Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club, a new commercial restaurant and increased public space for community gatherings and scenic lookouts.

The proposed demolition of the former Co-Op drew widespread community opposition to original plans – a petition to save the building attracted more than 1500 signatures.

Meanwhile, GORCAPA is engaged with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation in a separate consultation process to ensure the eventual Point Grey aligns with cultural values.