Geelong council has announced construction on the Ocean Grove footpath project will begin in a matter of weeks.
The ambitious project will include 24.3 kilometres of newly constructed pathways throughout the ‘old’ Ocean Grove and Collendina areas.
Stage 1A of the Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network, which will include works on Aldebaran Road, Marlin Drive, Shell Road East, Shell Road West and Thacker Street, will begin “in the coming weeks”, according to Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan
“We did a lot of consultation to make sure the network of paths had strong support and met the needs of the community,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“Once completed, the pathways will make it safer and easier to access schools, public transport, local businesses, and other key destinations.”
Ocean Grove Community Association (OGCA) chair Andy McKoy said the community was, by and large, behind the project, with a few lingering concerns.
“The majority support the project; you only have to walk around any of the grassed road reserves to find out they’re all bumpy, with hidden holes you can fall into,” Mr McKoy said.
“In places, you’re forced onto the bitumen to negotiate past all the parked cars.
“Residents are happy with the fact (council) is doing it, and they’re happy we persuaded council, with (Bellarine Ward councillor) Jim Mason’s help, to put more money in.”
Initially, Geelong council proposed the cost of the project be split equally between residents and the City, with potential costs of nearly $1000 to residents in the area.
The ratio was revised down, with residents now paying for 35 per cent of the project through a special charge of $333.87 per property in April 2024.
Mr McKoy said concerns remained among residents about the number of trees to be cut down to make way for the footpaths, but that City officers had assured him they were mindful of existing tree life.
“They’ll plant trees to replace the ones they take out, and we’re hoping they will, if possible, relocate the footpath to the other side (of the street) to minimise the reduction,” he said.
“Hopefully they’ll tell us in advance. We’d like to encourage residents who live near a tree they like to mention it to council.”
Residents can visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/OGPPN to check if their street is affected by the works.
