Long-awaited Highton Village refresh revealed

THE City of Greater Geelong is progressing with detailed planning of upgrades to Highton Village after finalising a years-long planning framework for the precinct.

The city has released concept plans for a Highton Village Laneways Upgrade, which is set to give the shopping centre a new look during the next financial year.

The laneway upgrades were part of a final council vote on the Highton Urban Design Framework (UDF) in October last year, after councillors heard residents and traders wanted a refresh of the village but were overwhelmingly opposed to large-scale changes such as raised height limits.

The city has proposed minor facelifts including new pavements with artistic graphics, pergolas with climbing plants, furniture, lighting and plants for the area that covers Bellevue Arcade, Village Walk and the service lane around the supermarket.

The plans are now open for feedback, with community members who live, work, travel through and shop in the area invited to share their ideas and thoughts on the concept plans.

“The laneways in Highton Village are one of the reasons the area is so popular in Geelong and it’s time to upgrade the tired space,” Kardinia Ward councillor Ron Nelson said.

“We want to make sure the area’s charm is retained while improving the visitor experience with features like more vegetation, new paving, pergola structures and better connections.”

Fellow Kardinia Ward councillor Bruce Harwood said the next step was another opportunity to hear community views on the future of Highton Village.

“Council appreciates the detailed and insightful feedback from residents, traders, shoppers and commuters during the five rounds of engagement on the Highton UDF.

“We want to progress the initial concepts from the UDF with help from community members so the laneways continue to be an attractive and accessible area to visit.”

To see the plans and give feedback, head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/HVLU