Point Grey Redevelopment Principal Design Consultant contract awarded

Published on 01 February 2024

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The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (the Authority) has reached a pivotal milestone in the delivery of the Point Grey Lorne Redevelopment with the appointment of NMBW Architecture Studio as the Principal Design Consultant.  

The $12.59 million Point Grey Lorne Redevelopment is one of the Authority’s highest priorities and will create a unique experience for locals and visitors, which will benefit the local economy and the Lorne and Surf Coast Shire community.  

Following a competitive tender evaluation in late 2023, the Authority has awarded the $1.062 million contract to NMBW Architecture Studio, who will spearhead the joint development of a comprehensive precinct masterplan for the project. 

At Point Grey in Lorne, a revised Precinct Masterplan needs to be developed following the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) determination in 2022 to deny a permit for the Point Grey Redevelopment. 

Masterplanning will involve a thorough analysis of critical factors such as assessing carrying capacity, environmental values, public safety, local coastal adaptation planning processes, and compliance with relevant legislation and policies. 

Jointly working with the Authority, the firm will be responsible for outlining the vision, design elements, and functionality of the revitalised precinct and for leading the architectural services, which includes all planning permit and Marine and Coastal Act 2018 consent processes before handing over to a separate structural engineering contractor who will deliver the works on the ground. 

Collectively we’ll be working closely with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation throughout the project to embed Rights Holder knowledge and assertions in the planning and delivery phases. 

Community input is fundamental to the project and NMBW Architecture Studio will play a key role in engaging the local community with us throughout the masterplanning process to ensure community values are reflected in the final redevelopment of Point Grey. 

The Principal Design Consultant will meet with the Community Reference Group established to support the project to undertake design workshops over the coming months prior to broader community engagement. 

The redevelopment will provide new and improved facilities onsite, including; 

• a new Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club 

• improved connectivity between the water’s edge and the public space with upgraded walking paths within the project area.  

• recognition of cultural heritage  

• space for casual hospitality offerings, including options for coffee, takeaway and al fresco seating. 

This project is being delivered as part of the Geelong City Deal, a collaborative partnership to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the Australian Government and Victorian Government, and local council with the Authority and key partners. 

 Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority CEO Jodie Sizer  

"Point Grey is a place of great significance for the local community and visitors alike, and the appointment of NMBW Architecture Studio, under our leadership, marks a pivotal moment for this transformative initiative.” 

“We’re fortunate to be building on the culmination of 25 years of engagement history, and our commitment to evidence-based decision-making ensures we’re on track to deliver an outcome we can all be proud of."