The City of Greater Geelong fears local knowledge could be lost in a state overhaul of planning decisions.
Premier Daniel Andrews is backing an IBAC report that recommends major local planning matters should be handled by the state.
The Premier has flagged stripping councils of planning powers following the damning corruption report over developer donations at Casey Council.
Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan though said there was no comparison between the two councils.
“We have almost every zoning area,” Cr Sullivan said.
“We have got industrial, international ports, farmland, residentials, CBD, business – anything you can find in Geelong.
“So our planners are across absolutely every facet.”
Cr Sullivan said it would be a shame to lose local input but it would be out of his hands.
“The last thing we want to see councils lose is community engagement and the knowledge base that we have.
“We definitely welcome other powers that bring more funding to allow us to deliver these planning functions.”
Picture: Geelong City Hall [Geelong Broadcasters]
