ANYONE waiting for progress on the proposed Apollo Bay resort will have to keep waiting, with the next step not likely to happen until next month.<\/p>\n
The Colac Otway Shire resolved in November to ask Planning Minister Richard Wynne to call in the planning application for the development at 275 Barham River Road on the basis that it \u201craises significant issues in relation to state regional development and tourism development objectives related to the Great Ocean Road\u201d.<\/p>\n
The $70 million proposal will have 180 rooms, 82 villas and accommodation for 40 staff.<\/p>\n
Last month, the shire advised that a decision from Mr Wynne\u2019s office was not expected before the Christmas break, and \u201cit was likely the matter will be raised again when the minister returns to portfolio duties in February\u201d.<\/p>\n
The shire has also reminded its councillors to keep an open mind on the divisive issue, which has attracted more than 155 objections and 10 letters of support from the community.<\/p>\n
Shire mayor Joe McCracken said it was extremely important councillors did not pre-determine a position in relation to the development as this could create a conflict of interest for councillors in the event the Planning Minister decided to refer the matter back to council.<\/p>\n
The shire will be briefed regarding the status of the minister\u2019s advice before the council\u2019s January meeting, to be held on January 25 at COPACC in Colac, \u201cbut are not expected to consider the matter at this meeting\u201d.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ANYONE waiting for progress on the proposed Apollo Bay resort will have to keep waiting, with the next step not likely to happen until next month. The Colac Otway Shire resolved in November to ask Planning Minister Richard Wynne to call in the planning application for the development at 275 Barham River Road on the […]<\/p>\n