Community opposition to development: both sides explained

A proposed 12-storey apartment complex on Geelong's Mercer Street has sparked fierce community opposition, with over 200 submissions lodged against the development.

This controversy highlights the growing tension between Geelong's rapid growth and the desire to preserve the city's character. With the Victorian median house price hovering around $680,000, and Geelong's own median house price rising steadily, the pressure to develop is intensifying. The city's commuter belt to Melbourne and the growth of Armstrong Creek are also driving demand for new housing and infrastructure.

In Geelong, the debate over development is playing out in specific neighbourhoods, such as the Geelong CBD and the Surf Coast. The City of Greater Geelong's own Urban Renewal Strategy, which aims to revitalise the city centre, is being put to the test by proposals like the Mercer Street complex. Organisations like the Geelong Heritage Centre and the Surf Coast Shire Council are also weighing in on the issue, advocating for a balance between growth and preservation. The Geelong Waterfront, a popular destination for both locals and tourists, is another area where development plans are being closely watched.

Development by the numbers

According to data from the City of Greater Geelong, the number of development applications lodged in the past year has increased by 25%, with a significant proportion of these proposals being for high-density housing. The median apartment price in Geelong has risen to over $450,000, up from $380,000 just two years ago. Meanwhile, the Victorian Government's Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 strategy aims to accommodate a projected 2.4 million additional residents in the state by 2050, with a significant proportion of this growth expected to occur in regional cities like Geelong. As of June 2026, the City of Greater Geelong has approved over 1,000 new dwellings in the Armstrong Creek growth area alone.

So what happens next? For residents concerned about over-development, the key will be to engage with the planning process and make their voices heard. The City of Greater Geelong's website provides a wealth of information on current and proposed developments, as well as details on how to lodge a submission. For developers, the challenge will be to design proposals that balance growth with community concerns, and to work closely with local stakeholders to address issues like heritage, density, and livability. As Geelong continues to evolve, finding this balance will be crucial to creating a vibrant, sustainable city that works for everyone.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.