Ensuring sustainable development along Great Ocean Road

Published on 08 February 2023

We are excited by the Australian and Victorian governments’ commitment to the future development of our region through the delivery of several projects funded through the Geelong City Deal.

It was announced that we are set to deliver the much-anticipated Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment, infrastructure upgrades to Kennett River and the Point Grey Lorne Redevelopment – in line with the Government’s vision when it set up the Authority to protect natural, cultural and heritage values of the region’s crown land and marine waters.

The Apollo Bay Harbour redevelopment will provide an improved visitor experience and broaden the commercial and recreational opportunities in the area so that visitors and locals can enjoy the harbour for years to come.

At Point Grey, works under a renewed masterplan continue so that it meets required planning requirements and suits the community’s needs now and into the future. We will continue to work with rights holders Eastern Marr Aboriginal Corporation, as well as The Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club, local community, Surf Coast Shire Council, and funding partners in developing the masterplan.

While Kennett River will undergo infrastructure upgrades, including new toilets and wastewater treatment plant to be built next to Kennett River Caravan Park, on land we maintain.

The projects are among four Geelong City Deal funded projects between Lorne and Apollo Bay, including the Apollo Bay to Skenes Creek Coastal Trail.

The Australian and Victorian governments have decided not to proceed with the trail project after extensive planning and design works determined a coastal trail could have long term impacts to the fragile coastal environment.

The remaining $4 million allocated towards that project will remain within the Geelong City Deal program and support the Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment, infrastructure upgrades to Kennett River, and the Point Grey Lorne Redevelopment.

We were established to ensure a coordinated approach to development along the Great Ocean Road. We will work with key stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition of the Geelong City Deal projects, including formalising the funding agreement.

These projects form part of the $500 million Geelong City Deal, a collaborative plan to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the Australian and Victorian Governments and local council.

For more information on the Geelong City Deal visit Cities | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts and www.rdv.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/geelong-city-deal.