Special Charge Scheme proposed for Port street

THE City of Greater Geelong has declare a Special Charge Scheme (SCS) to co-fund the sealing of part of Willis Street in Portarlington.

The section to be sealed is between Brown and Harding streets.

The city, which gave note of its intention to declare the SCS in February, says the proposal responds to long-standing community concerns and aims to improve local access and amenity.

Special Rate and Charge schemes are a way for the city to partner with property owners to deliver infrastructure improvements that directly benefit landowners.

These schemes help fund projects such as road sealing, footpaths, and drainage upgrades.

According to the city’s website, property owners often use petitions, or a multi-signatory letter signed by themselves and their neighbours asking the city to build a particular piece of infrastructure.

To account for property owners changing their minds during the process, the city will not start the process of a scheme “without a minimum of 60 per cent support from benefiting property owners”.

The council resolved to declare the SCS for the Willis Street section at their August meeting.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the upgrade would meet the needs of local residents.

“This upgrade will significantly improve the experience for residents who rely on this part of Willis Street every day.

“It’s a practical step toward enhancing livability and supporting growth in this area.”

Murradoc Ward councillor Rowan Story said the project would improve the level of service the street provides users.

“Special Charge Schemes enable the city to partner with residents to deliver meaningful improvements that respond directly to the needs of property owners and the broader community.”

For more information about SCS at the city, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/src