Looking To The Future: Land Use Options In Moolap

Published:
Wednesday 6 July 2016

Seven possible land use options for northern Moolap have been outlined in a discussion paper released by the Andrews Labor Government today.

The discussion paper is a key part of the development of the Moolap Coastal Strategic Framework Plan, which aims to identify future plans for the area including any potential land use change over the long term.

Based on community and stakeholder consultation, site research and analysis of Australian and international case studies, it will help test potential land use options for more than 1,200 hectares of land in northern Moolap, just five kilometres east of central Geelong.

While no decision has been made on the future land use at northern Moolap, the following seven scenarios have been developed for community feedback:

  • Retention of existing land uses including industry and rural areas
  • Port facilities including an upgraded pier with access to the shipping channel
  • Marine industry and infrastructure with retention of most existing industrial land
  • Sustainable energy and food production such as aquaculture and sea-grass carbon capture
  • Major tourism facilities including marina-cruise ship facilities and coastal residential development
  • Residential development with a small tourism precinct, boating infrastructure and large public park and conservation area
  • Conservation of the former saltworks to protect habitat and heritage, and a small eco-tourism precinct

The community and stakeholders can find more information or submit their feedback by 29 July through an online survey at haveyoursay.delwp.vic.gov.au/moolap(opens in a new window)

People can also attend open house events at the Eastern Hub, 285a McKilliop Street, East Geelong on Monday, 11 July, 5-8pm and Friday, 15 July, 11am-2pm.

Feedback together with further analysis will be used to prepare the draft Moolap Plan for release later this year.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Water and Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of Moolap. Community engagement is critical to the Moolap Plan as it will provide the ideas and local knowledge necessary to make the best decisions for the Geelong region.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne

“The Moolap Plan has reached a critical stage of its development and I encourage everyone with an interest in this important site to have their say on its future use.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We will ensure all voices are heard throughout this process as we endeavour to strike the right balance for the economy, environment and broader Geelong community.”