Last night the community came together to discuss Coles’ proposal to develop a site in Point Lonsdale.

Unfortunately, as Parliament is sitting this week, I was unable to attend. However, I did provide a statement to the organisers, after meeting with them on Monday. I understand that not everyone was able to see my statement on the night, so I have provided it below -

Thank you for your invitation to attend this evening and I regret that I have been unable to attend due to Parliamentary sitting week.

I appreciate your interest and engagement on this issue that may affect our community. I understand that there are a wide range of views on the proposed development, and I have heard from many residents who have shared their concerns with me directly.

At this stage, there is no planning application before the Minister. Coles is currently engaged in the pre-application process, which allows a proponent to engage with the Department of Planning to determine whether a proposal is eligible for the Development Facilitation Program. The Department will then provide advice based on that assessment.

It is important to note that:

• This pre-application process is not a formal application.
• Eligibility for the Development Facilitation Program does not mean approval of the development.
• No formal lodgement has been made.

I also recognise the concerns raised about the site itself, which is currently zoned commercial. The City of Greater Geelong Point Londale Structure Plan states ‘this zoning which encourages bulky goods retailing and manufacturing industry, is inappropriate for the land considering the tourism focus of Point Lonsdale and the location of the land acting as a gateway entry to the town. Opportunity exists to rezone the land to a Special Use Zone to facilitate the development of an appropriately scaled tourist accommodation or tourism related use’.

In addition, I want to confirm that the Bellarine Distinctive Area and Landscape Statement of Planning Policy is now in place and must be applied in all planning decisions on the Bellarine, including any consideration under the Development Facilitation program.

Please be assured that I am monitoring this matter closely and will continue to respect and support the community’s position.

Finally, I want to thank you for the strong advocacy and commitment you continue to show in protecting what we all value about the Bellarine.