Feedback open on Bay Trail draft plans

LOCALS who use Geelong’s popular Bay Trail to exercise, connect with nature and enjoy the sights of Corio Bay are invited to have their say on draft plans to rejuvenate its infrastructure.

The draft plans aim to resolve key issues along the existing trail and is in response to extensive community feedback undertaken last year.

Proposed upgrades include fixing gaps, widening the trail, improving its surface, improving its connection to North Shore Station, raising the trail to mitigate coastal risks and assisting to revegetate native indigenous species in the area.

The Bay Trail runs for 9km from North Shore to Western Beach Foreshore along the Geelong Waterfront and is integral in connecting communities and growing tourism within the region.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the Bay Trail is one of council’s number one priorities in addressing local trail gaps and deficiency issues.

“The Bay Trail is one of our premier trails within Greater Geelong’s shared trail network and contributes to a healthier community while attracting visitors to our region.

“This draft concept plan is a chance for us to make it as user friendly, safe and cohesive as possible through trail realignments, improvements and taking advantage of opportunities.”

Cr Eddy Kontelj said the plans aimed to foster positive social, cultural and economic benefits.

“It’s important that future plans for the Bay Trail support recreation, wellbeing, biodiversity and tourism.

“This trail is beloved among local community members and visitors alike so we hope to get a range of community members giving feedback through our quick poll, interactive map and survey.”

The draft concept plans align with the Marine and Coastal Act 2018 and Marine and Coastal Policy which outline directions for planning and managing Victoria’s coastlines and marine environment.

Feedback will be open until October 22 – for more information or to leave a comment, head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/baytrail

Drop-in sessions will be held at Rippleside Beach on Tuesday, October 10 at 4.30-6.30pm and October 14 from 10am-12 noon.

The city will be seeking funding opportunities to deliver staged improvements once the plan is finalised.