The future of one of Geelong's most iconic streets now hangs in the balance as an independent planning panel takes control of a controversial development plan that has divided the community.
Council Defers Decision to Planning Experts
The City of Greater Geelong council has officially handed over the decision-making power for the Pakington Street Precinct Plan to an independent planning panel. This significant move came during Tuesday's council meeting, where councillors voted to defer the final determination on the proposed planning scheme amendment.
The decision follows months of community consultation and heated debates about the street's future character and development controls. The council received approximately 70 submissions from residents, business owners, and stakeholders, reflecting the strong community interest in the precinct's development direction.
Controversial Height Limits and Building Controls
At the heart of the debate are proposed changes to building heights and design controls along the popular shopping and dining strip. The current plan suggests varying height limits between two and four storeys across different sections of Pakington Street, with specific provisions for building setbacks and design elements.
Councilor Eddy Kontelj, who represents the Brownbill ward containing Pakington Street, acknowledged the complexity of the issue. "There are aspects of the amendment that have raised concerns within the community," he stated during the council discussion. The independent panel will now review these concerns and the proposed planning controls before making a binding recommendation to the council.
What Happens Next for Geelong's Iconic Strip
The independent planning panel, comprised of expert planners appointed by the state government, will conduct a thorough review of all submissions and the proposed amendment. Their recommendation will carry significant weight, though the final decision still rests with the council to accept, modify, or reject the panel's advice.
This process ensures that the future development of Pakington Street balances community expectations with strategic planning principles. The street has long been recognized as one of Geelong's premier destinations, known for its unique blend of heritage buildings, specialty shops, and vibrant dining scene.
The panel's review is expected to take several weeks, with a decision likely before the end of the current planning cycle. Meanwhile, residents and business owners await the outcome that will shape the character of their neighborhood for decades to come.
