GREATER GEELONG PLANNING SCHEME
21.29 PORTS 19/01/2006 VC37 Importance and Key Issues
Corio Bay and the Port of Geelong are vitally important resources for the City’s economy. They provide a significant locational advantage for industry wishing to access and distribute goods and services to and from Greater Geelong and south-west Victoria. It is the sixth largest port in Australia in terms of tonnage, is the major grain handling terminal for the State, and provides specialist infrastructure for bulk handling. Direct freight movements within and between industrial areas and port and rail infrastructure is critical to industry growth and efficiency. The Geelong Port has specialised bulk handling facilities with the capacity to expand turnover. Better linkages to the standard gauge rail will expedite this with consequent improvements in amenity resulting from the reduction of road haulage across and through the City. To maintain this competitive advantage it is imperative for Council to ensure that future use and development of the Port and surrounding industrial land is linked and opportunities protected.
Objective 1
To maintain and enhance the integrity of the Port and its existing infrastructure.
Strategies
Protect the area from encroachment by non-compatible land uses or developments. Ensure that sufficient land is available for future port-related developments. Support Geelong Port operations and ensure that strategic opportunities for the growth and development of the Port and linked activities are maintained. Discourage further fragmentation of land holdings in the area of the port where this threatens to close off strategic development options.
Objective 2
To maintain and enhance the efficiency of the Port of Geelong, and its importance as a focal point for infrastructure development and economic prosperity within south-west Victoria.
Strategies
Facilitate and advocate for development within the Port. Facilitate strategic planning for the Port and encourage the Port to be viewed within the context of the development of the Geelong region and south-western Victoria. Secure a standard gauge rail linkage into the Port.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by:
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.29 PAGE 1 OF 2 GREATER GEELONG PLANNING SCHEME
Using policy and the exercise of discretion
Critically assessing subdivision, use and development applications in the Special Use Zone – Schedule 6 to ensure that proposals are port related and port dependent.
Applying Zones and Overlays
Applying the Special Use Zone – Schedule 6 Port Areas to existing and proposed port facilities along the shores of Corio Bay.
Undertaking further strategic work
Other Actions
Continued industry assistance and promotion by Council’s Economic Development Unit to industry seeking to establish export/import reliant business in the vicinity of the Port. Working with the relevant authorities to secure an extension of the national standard gauge rail into the Port of Geelong.
References
City of Greater Geelong Economic Development Strategy, City of Greater Geelong, March 1999
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