Geelong’s plan to transform its central business area into a people-friendly and attractive streetscape has progressed with the release of master plans for Mercer and Gheringhap Streets, two gateways to the city.
The plans, which will be implemented over the coming years, have a strong active transport and landscaping thrust and an emphasis on accessibility.
The city is responding to a trend evident across the globe where visitors and shoppers have turned against car-choked business districts, threatening their economic future.
Geelong took its first step towards attractive place making with the Green Spine project in Malop Street, which stirred controversy at the time.
The draft plans, which also include a link through Bayley Street near the railway station, will extend the impact on a north-south route parallel to the main drag, Moorabool Street.
An extra 4.2km of new or upgraded and separated bike lanes will be delivered with the project.
The proposal includes underground powerlines, a 400% increase in street trees, and 20,8000 square metres of fully accessible public space.
Less on-street parking will be available as Geelong moves to a model of providing multi-storey parking facilities on the periphery of the city centre.
Under the masterplan, Gheringhap Street will be transformed into a linear park with an active transport focus that stretches to Carr Street, adjacent to Kardinia Park.
Community engagement for the project is open now.
Full documentation of the proposals is available for download and feedback surveys for each of the streets are available.
You can also book a chat with the project team on 16 January 2024.
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