Plans for $25m riverfront development lodged with council

The plans, which were opposed by council at VCAT in 2021, feature 17 townhouses and 57 apartments in Newtown.

New renders for a development at 510 LaTrobe Bvd, Newtown.

Developers have re-lodged plans for a $25m Newtown project, including 17 townhouses and 57 apartments, which previously ended up at the state’s planning umpire.

A planning application for the 510 and 510A Latrobe Blvd site was lodged with the City of Greater Geelong in 2021, but the city failed to make a decision on time.

The matter went to The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), with council opting to oppose the development.

While the city did not oppose the basics of the development it said parts of the application did not meet its standards.

Issues raised by the city included concerns about public safety, parking, pedestrian safety, emergency and delivery access and waste collection services.

Developers have re-lodged plans for a $25m development on the Barwon River-front.

The National Trust argued at the time the precinct would be out of place on the waterfront and “to the detriment” of the historic Barwon Grange townhouse, which sits immediately west of the site.

Developers said all matters had “been addressed” in their newly lodged documents.

The project would also include a pool and gym and cafe along with the medium to high density dwellings.

The original plans cost $4m less, with many Geelong Advertiser readers voicing their support for the proposal at the time.

VCAT documents show applicants Desbrowe Developments and Glengarry Developments argued the project could reduce development pressure in Geelong’s outer growth areas.

Director of Glangarry Developments Wayne Jennings said the plans provided an “opportunity to bring much needed life to the river which has been neglected for so long”.

“The project will create a village style residential development with a gym, heated undercover pool and a café that overlooks the river to allow residents and those who use the river to sit and relax while enjoying this unique place,” Mr Jennings.

“A healthy environment and lifestyle that can nurture friendships and suit all ages, there is a variety of dwellings from townhouses to apartments with lift access overlooking the river and the walking tracks.

“With extensive landscaping, eco friendly car chargers and double glazed windows and balconies with river views, combined with the heritage beauty of Barwon Grange, Albion Mills and Rosebank there is a wonderful sense of history as well.”

The new plans, currently before council, directly respond to 16 issues raised in VCAT.

The site, which sits between Barwon Grange and Latrobe Tce facing the Barwon River, is currently home to an office, home and vacant land, according to the planning documents.

The development seeks to enhance the visual relationship with the river, and reuse existing heritage buildings including woollen mills.

The plans also outline the intention to improve pedestrian and bike access to the river, as well as an extension of Rutland St which would connect the development to Pakington St.

A decision will not be made on the plans until August 15.

Originally published as Plans for $25m riverfront development lodged with council