Warrnambool city councillors will be asked to support a plan by Deakin University to rezone land for its Hycel Technology Hub.
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The project - currently in its design phase - is expected to be complete by December 2022 and will be one of Australia's first regional hydrogen facilities specialising in developing and testing hydrogen fuel technology.
It is expected to create 210 full-time regional and sector jobs including those in cell manufacturing and pilots across the region over the next 10 years.
Councillors will be asked to endorse an officer's recommendation at the August meeting on Monday night to allow the university to have land rezoned from farming zone to public use (education).
"It is considered that the amendment request and the proposed changes are reasonable and would facilitate the current operations and ongoing viability and growth of Deakin University, which is an important educational institution and employer in south-west Victoria," the report states.
Deakin University has also requested an exemption from the Minister for Planning from public notice requirements.
"The proponent submits that the amendment request will facilitate important projects like the Hycel Technology Hub, which has received significant federal and state Government investment," the report states.
"This project will result in employment, education, and research benefits for the wider region.
"The amendment request will give effect to an outcome which is largely administrative.
"An exemption from public notice requirements would therefore enable the amendment request to be expedited and allow the university to commence planning and development of the Hycel Technology Hub without delay."
Councillors will also be asked to vote on a proposed 20-lot subdivision on Younger Street.
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