Point Grey final Urban Design Framework reflects community feedback

THE Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority says it has listened closely to the community regarding changes to Point Grey’s Urban Design Framework (UDF), the final version of which was released earlier today (Monday, September 1).

The draft UDF was released on May 27 and proposed three new buildings at the Lorne precinct: a casual food premise, a new Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club building, and new public toilets.

Responses to the plan came from the Committee for Lorne and residents who engaged in the earlier Point Grey consultation.

GORCAPA stated it has updated its plans for Point Grey “to reflect community feedback”, and the final UDF’s features now include:

• The inclusion of a boat wash facility
• The inclusion of a public fish cleaning station
• A redesigned open space area near the pier to accommodate multiple uses, including community events or extra parking, which is in addition to an overall increase in formalised parking spots across the precinct
• Relocation of the new public toilets within a new building that will replace the old co-op, and
• Additional promotion of the site’s maritime and timber history across the precinct.

GORCAPA is working with the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club on detailed designs for their new building and will work with the Lorne Historic Society to ensure the precinct reflects their aspirations to promote the site’s timber and maritime history.

The authority will also partner with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation to co-design the Gunditj Lorne Garden space, transforming the old public toilets zone into an open area for the community.

Following assessment, consideration of community views and a cost benefit analysis, the old co-op building cannot be retained or repurposed and will be demolished.

An assessment of the 1949 section of the co-op building will be completed to identify and salvage materials that could re-used. The new building will respect the historic section of the co-op in its shape, roofline and footprint.

“We know that Point Grey is an iconic spot that is special to many people, so we’ve worked positively with the community to help shape this project. Thank you to everyone who has been involved through the many phases of consultation,” GORCAPA interim chief executive officer Christine Ferguson said.

“It is clear the Lorne community has strong aspirations for the site. We really value this passion, because it has helped us plan something that is appropriate to the area and will be of lasting benefit to locals, visitors, and the broader region.”

“Major construction will get under way early next year, and we will keep the community informed as work progresses, including keeping public access to the pier unchanged as much as possible.”

There will also be a drop-in session about the final UDF at Point Grey on Saturday, September 6 from 10 am to 12 noon and two online drop-in sessions on Monday, September 8 at 12 noon and 5.30 pm.

The Point Grey works are part of the $676 million Geelong City Deal.

To read the final UDF, head to haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/point-grey-redevelopment.