A greener heart for Geelong: Phase 3 of Malop Street Green Spine completed

THE third stage of the Malop Street Green Spine project is finished, extending the botanic walk and separated bicycle lanes completed in previous stages of the project.

Construction on the section, spanning the south side of Malop Street between Yarra and Bellarine streets, began in July and was completed just before Christmas.

Its completion marks the reopening of westbound car and bicycle lanes on Malop Street, which have been closed to traffic since construction began.

Additions to the streetscape include native plants, a separated bike lane, a raised pedestrian crossing positioned between Yarra and Bellarine streets and the refurbishment of parts of the road.

Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Member for Corio, Richard Marles, has celebrated the progression of the project.

“It’s fantastic to see the final touches put on the Green Spine project Block 3 as we work to transform the heart of Geelong to encourage locals and tourists to spend more time and money in the city centre,” he said.

The Green Spine is one of the Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan’s key projects and aims to connect Geelong Station Precinct, Johnstone Park and Eastern Park with a pedestrian-friendly park along six blocks of Malop Street.

With three blocks now completed, the remaining stages of the project will see the sections of Malop Street between Bellarine Street and Garden Street similarly revitalised.

The Green Spine project is funded by the $500 million Geelong City Deal, a joint collaboration between federal, state and local governments to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road over 10 years.

Once the project is complete, more than 10,000 plants and trees and almost a hectare of new green space will have been added to Geelong’s CBD.

Intended to help “reclaim” Malop Street as a pedestrian and active transport zone, the botanic walk will include dedicated spaces for alfresco dining and events, a safer cycling route spanning the length of the Green Spine, cultural art and improved street lighting.

City of Greater Geelong mayor, Trent Sullivan, said: “A thriving Malop Street is key to the ongoing revitalisation of central Geelong.”

Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney, said the Green Spine project was an investment in the future of Geelong.

“It unlocks new opportunities for local businesses, creates a fresh new space for people to spend time, and provides a safe route for cyclists and walkers through the city.

“We’re excited to see how this key asset will be used by the city for years to come.”