OTR seeks City Hall approval for first Geelong outlet

A service station brand that made its name in South Australia wants to open its first outlet in the Geelong region, but first City Hall must give it the tick of approval.

There are plans for an OTR outlet on Cox Rd in Corio.

Plans are afoot for a new service station and car wash on a busy Corio thoroughfare.

If approved by City Hall, it would be the first OTR – previously known as On the Run – outlet in the region.

Located at 42-46 Cox Rd, the 2318sq metre site would be open 24 hours a day and include electric vehicle charging stations, alongside traditional fuel pumps.

The service station would offer “small-scale retail and convenience shopping”, according to documents submitted to Geelong council.

There would be 19 parking spaces, including one disabled space and EV charging bays.

Permission has also been sought to display illuminated signage in line with council guidelines.

The $2.5m project is currently out for public consultation.

“The station’s design will not adversely affect traffic flow or safety in the area,” planning documents state.

“OTRs are easy to find, fast to access and use, and provide a consistent range of well-stocked and presented products in a familiar environment.

“The proposed development will enhance the community’s access to essential services while maintaining the overall amenity of the area.”

There are plans before Geelong council for a service station and car wash at 42-46 Cox Rd in Corio. Picture: Alan Barber.

The outlet would “complement nearby businesses rather than compete with them, offering convenience and speed”, in contrast to the “more planned shopping trips typical of larger retail centres”, documents state.

A traffic assessment found the facility would handle the expected traffic without causing disruptions.

On The Run was founded in South Australia by the Shahin family.

It was purchased by ASX-listed Viva Energy for more than $1bn in a deal that was finalised in March this year.

As at December 31, the OTR group comprised 226 stores, with just 42 of these located outside of South Australia.

Viva has plans to significantly grow OTR’s presence in the eastern states.

The proposed site is nearby the Norlane ARC (Aquatic Recreation Centre) and less than 1km from Corio Village.

Public consultation closes October 5.

If approved, the service station is expected to open in 2025.

OTR was contacted for comment.

Originally published as OTR seeks City Hall approval for first Geelong outlet