20/10/2025
An update from Alison Marchant on the proposed Cole’s development:
“As per my statement in September, no formal planning application has been lodged by Coles. That remains the case today…”
I understand that the proposed Coles development has caused great concern in the community, and I thank all the constituents who have contacted my office and spoken to me about this issue.
As per my statement in September, no formal planning application has been lodged by Coles. That remains the case today.
The pre-application enquiry for this site is still in its preliminary stages to determine if it is eligible for the Department’s Development Facilitation Program.
Despite speculation, this project has not entered any formal assessment under the Development Facilitation Program, nor does an acceptance into the program guarantee approval.
I can confirm that if a formal planning application is lodged at any stage, the community will have the opportunity to have their say.
Since my previous statement, I have taken steps to ensure that community concerns are clearly understood at all levels:
• I have met with the Mayors and CEOs of both the City of Greater Geelong and the Borough of Queenscliffe to discuss the proposal.
• I have written to both Councils, making it clear that the City of Greater Geelong retain the authority to initiate rezoning should they determine that the current zoning is not appropriate for this unique coastal township.
• I have met the Stop Coles organisers multiple times, to hear the communities’ views and to communicate directly about the process.
• I have continued to liaise with the Minister’s Office to ensure that local views - and the protections provided by the Bellarine Distinctive Area and Landscape Statement of Planning Policy - remain front of mind.
The City of Greater Geelong’s and Borough’s Point Lonsdale Structure Plan outlines a vision for this entry corridor, including consideration of more suitable zoning, such as a Special Use Zone focused on tourism or accommodation rather than bulky retail.
Questions surrounding the Structure Plan and its implementation should be directed to the City of Greater Geelong, as they are the planning authority responsible for its interpretation and application. The Minister has written to the City of Greater Geelong to confirm its responsibilities as the planning authority.
The recent announcement to expand the Ramsar-listed wetlands on our coastlines further strengthens my deep commitment to safeguarding the most environmentally significant parts of our region.
I remain committed to representing the interests of our community - listening, advocating, and keeping you informed as developments unfold.
