Green start: Green Spine entry completed

ANOTHER part of the Green Spine is finished and is now providing a grand entry to the urban renewal project in Geelong’s CBD from Johnstone Park and the Geelong Station precinct.

The section between Gheringhap and Moorabool streets, completed just before Christmas, features almost 3,000 new trees and shrubs, bluestone paving, seating and tables, improved stormwater drainage and filtration and a single-lane bike path.

A steel decking designed in consultation with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners has also been incorporated to provide a cultural learning opportunity for the community.

The work of BJ O’Toole, a young Wadawurrung artist, has been translated into the design, which was then reproduced by the steel fabricators.

The Green Spine is one of the key projects of the 10-year Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan, which will provide a new pedestrian-friendly park along six blocks of Malop Street to deliver major environmental and economic benefits for the CBD.

Detailed planning work to revitalise the remainder of Malop Street is under way, with community and stakeholder consultation on the concept designs to begin next month.

The Green Spine is being delivered as part of the $500 million Geelong City Deal, a joint commitment from the federal government, Victorian government and City of Greater Geelong in 2019 to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road over 10 years.

“The Green Spine along Malop Street is really taking shape with another stage being completed just in time for Christmas and the New Year,” Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson said.

“The community and traders will be able to enjoy this outdoor space with its rich mix of native and exotic plantings, as well as infuse Wadawurrung Traditional Owner culture, beautiful wooden seating and alfresco dining areas.”

Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the Green Spine would increase opportunities for residential development, business and tourism.

“It will help transform the city into a great place to live, work and visit.

“Creating a linear park along Malop Street will improve the health and wellbeing of all in central Geelong.”

For more information on the Geelong City Deal, head to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website.