New development proposed for Hicks St, Lara

Developers have submitted new plans for a controversial $4.3m Lara proposal. SEE THE DESIGNS

Planned development at Hicks St, Lara.

Developers have submitted new plans for a controversial $4.3m development slated for Lara.

A proposal for a four-storey building at 26 Hicks St, currently home to a single-storey brick dwelling, which would be demolished, has been lodged with Geelong council.

Plans released last year for the site next to Lara train station saw the project spruiked as “a first for the area”.

But the City of Greater Geelong received more than 100 objections.

The Geelong Advertiser understands common themes included traffic congestion; inadequate carparking; size, height and design of building; and neighbourhood character.

Initial plans for a mixed-use development included courses in early childhood education and care being provided in the building.

“The education centre use component has since been removed from the proposed application,” a new planning report submitted to the City of Greater Geelong said.

“It is proposed to develop the subject site for a four-storey mixed-use (office, shop and cafe) building.”

According to the planning report lodged with council, key components include a maximum building height of 15m, with four storeys as well as basement-level parking for staff.

Planned development at Hicks St, Lara.

“At this point in time, it is not possible to confirm … visitor numbers as well as operating hours at this early stage in the project, as specific business operators have yet to confirmed,” planning documents say.

The site is about 550m east of Lara Village Shopping Centre.

The report said operating hours were anticipated to be 7am to 7pm for the office (typically Monday to Friday for core operations), while the shop and cafe were anticipated to operate, or have the flexibility to be open, over a seven-day period if desired.

“The proposed building will constitute a high-quality contemporary design that utilises render finishes in muted tones and black doors, window frames and spandrel panels,” the planning report said.

“Landscaped outdoor terraces are also proposed across all four levels to promote urban greening and enhance landscaping outcomes for new built form along Hicks St.”

No decision will be made before October 4.

Originally published as New development proposed for Hicks St, Lara