Torquay Bowls Club upgrade proposal clears council hurdle

THE Surf Coast Shire has supported a planning application from the Torquay Bowls Club to allow for future upgrades at its site on The Esplanade.

The proposal includes a third bowling green, additions to the existing clubhouse, new lighting, reconfigured car parking and the removal of vegetation, including 16 Moonah trees.

The Moonah trees, planted by the club and estimated to be about 25 years old, are not considered to have heritage value and do not require planning approval for removal.

The Torquay Bowls Club has operated on the site for more than 100 years and its expansion proposal was considered consistent with the strategic planning policies outlined in the Surf Coast Planning Scheme.

The club also undertook community engagement outside the statutory planning process.

Club director of strategy and development Peter Anderson said the club welcomed the council’s decision.

“Now that the planning application has been approved, the club will continue to work with all the relevant government reps, with council planners, with club members and with interested members of the wider community,” he said.

“We are determined to ensure its planned redevelopment produces the best outcome for the community and now look forward to commencing the first stage as soon as practicable.”

Objectors have 28 days from the date of the Notice of Decision to lodge an appeal with VCAT. If no appeal is received, the council will issue the final planning permit.

Separate approvals will be required from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) for offset planting opportunities within Taylor Park.