Council last night agreed to the method of sale for 69 McLachlan Street, Apollo Bay – the coastal town’s former Preschool, including the proviso that any profits from the sale that are not already committed to the new Kindergarten and Early Years Hub, be earmarked for funding the new centre’s childcare component.
Council determined to submit an offer to ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Victoria to purchase the site for affordable housing for key and essential workers through the Regional Purchase Program.
Affordable housing for key workers is a significant challenge for our coastal community and Council anticipates that a purchase of the site by ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Victoria would be a small step in meeting the need for affordable housing in Apollo Bay. Should ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Victoria not take up the offer, the property will be sold by auction on the open market.
“The community has put a huge amount into this property, so it’s only reasonable they get some return back for their kids,” said Cr Graham Costin, Colac Otway Shire Council’s Deputy Mayor.
“As a Council, we agreed childcare is a very important part of the economy of Apollo Bay and will be increasingly important to this community if it is to thrive and grow,” said Cr Margaret White.
The sale is scheduled to be completed before the end of 2022.
