New suburbs planned for Victorian town
The state government has approved a new suburb in Geelong to accommodate the growing number of residents shifting to the town.
Victorian planning minister Matthew Guy recently announced the rezoning of a subdivision in Geelong’s northern growth corridor, Lara West.
The 62 hectare site, Manzeene Village, is expected to provide 650 new lots for residential development.
In the government’s view, long-term population growth projections for Geelong show the need for more affordable housing.
"Development at Lara West will be undertaken gradually over 30 years to help meet the needs of the projected 500,000 extra residents in the Greater Geelong region by 2050," Mr Guy said.
Two additional new suburbs are also in the pipeline, known as Lovely Banks and Batesford South.
Ultimately, the Lara West area will accommodate around 10,000 new people.
In addition, the new suburbs will feature a commercial area, schools, sporting facilities and parkland, Mr Guy said.
"With planned road improvements, expansion of public transport services, the Regional Rail Link and brand new local employment opportunities, Lara will remain an attractive place to live and work just outside of central Geelong and Melbourne,” Mr Guy said.
“We are keen to secure the best outcome for the residents of Lara and Geelong, providing housing for the anticipated population growth, while also preserving the feel of the town and quality of life for residents."