The Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct Master Plan has been endorsed by council, following extensive community consultation.
This decision means $3 million in council funding, as well as state government funding will be released to the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, and the planning approval process can start.
The $19.1 million stage one of the project will include the wave attenuator, new RGYC marina berths, a Sailing School building and public area improvements.
The planned infrastructure will see increased opportunities to use the waterfront by Greater Geelong residents and tourists, new community event opportunities and will support the growth of current events.
The RGYC carried out two rounds of community consultation, including targeted stakeholder workshops for local residents, traders and club members, revealing support for the project.
800 notices about the master plan were mailed to nearby land owners and occupiers after council endorsed the draft master plan.
Council received 30 submissions after a 23 day public notice period, which were supportive of the master plan overall.
The master plan has been modified following community feedback, and other changes will be looked at in more detail during the next stage of design.
The implementation of the master plan will require changes to the RGYC's lease, including a new seabed area for the wave attenuator.
Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood
This is a great result for our whole community as we begin the major upgrade of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club.It will have a big impact on our local economy and make the area a more appealing place to visit for tourists and our own community.
This worthy project is just another step towards our clever and creative future, and council is proud to provide financial, planning and design support.
Deputy Mayor Peter Murrihy, Co-Chair, Social and Infrastructure Planning portfolio
The Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct Master Plan is an exciting project for the region, which is set to increase access to the area for residents and tourists.I want to acknowledge the work of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club members, who have been passionate drivers of this project.
