Shaping the public places of Geelong

THE City of Greater Geelong is asking for help on how it plans, delivers and manages the city’s outdoor public spaces.

The City is inviting the community to participate in coming consultation sessions and an online survey on how the public space network can meet future needs.

Along with meeting needs, providing spaces that are also sustainable, enjoyable, accessible, vibrant and safe is also important.

As the municipality continues to grow in population and climate change challenges are expected to impact the spaces, the city is preparing two strategies. The first is a Public Realm Strategy, which includes the public space around buildings and streets including laneways, roads and public plazas.

The second is the Open Space Strategy – public land used by the community for outdoor recreation and enjoyment.

Geelong mayor Cr Stretch Kontelj said the city wanted to hear from the public about what would make the outdoor public space network more liveable, fit for purpose and sustainable.

“Greater Geelong has many beautiful and inviting gardens, wetlands, laneways and shopping strips, but there’s more we can do to ensure these spaces continue thriving, while improving the attractiveness and atmosphere of others,” he said.

Cr Chris Burson, deputy chair of the city services, capital works and parks and gardens portfolio, said open spaces around the region will be impacted by population growth and housing targets.

“We need to have strategic and community-aligned plans in place for the management and delivery of streets, parks, roads, off road trails, waterways and other spaces,” Cr Burson said. “Help us drill into how these spaces are used, community aspirations and potential improvements to ensure we’re fully informed during this process.”

The online survey is open now, until May 12 and is available at yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/public-spaces-planning .

In-person consultation sessions will take place at the Wurriki Nyal Civic precint on April 30, Boronggook Drysdale Library on May 7 and Norlane ARC on May 8.