Council lights the way for beach users

GEELONG’s late-night beach walkers can enjoy a safer journey with the installation of improved lighting for a Western Beach footpath.

The City of Greater Geelong spent $92,000 on 51 new LED streetlights for Bob McGowan Path, which replaced old poles with brighter, longer-lasting and more efficient lights.

The path runs along Geelong Waterfront between Western Beach Boat Club and Rippleside Park.

Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy said the upgrade would make walks safer and easier for community members.

“The path is highly popular with both locals and visitors, forming a key part of our iconic waterfront. The new light poles look outstanding and the LED lights have made the path more appealing to travel on at night,” Cr Murrihy said.

Brownbill Ward councillor Eddy Kontelj said the project was in response to community requests.

“The lights are now much brighter and more efficient, meaning this project is great for community safety but also helps the Council work towards its environmental and economic sustainability aims,” Cr Kontelj said.

The project is part of a city plan to concert all 25,000 of its lights to LEDs, for an 85 per cent energy saving.