Council moves to block Coles store near protected wetlands

Key points

• The City of Greater Geelong has asked the state government to rezone a site at the entrance to Point Lonsdale so it can be used only for tourism. If approved, the site could not host a supermarket.
• Coles says the project is at a pre-application stage and no planning permit has been lodged. Community members opposed to the store cite concerns about nearby Ramsar-listed wetlands, the visual impact and effects on local traders.
• The Borough of Queenscliffe has joined the council in opposing the development. A community meeting on October 22 will discuss possible tourism uses for the site.