Congestion concerns for Geelong’s Malop Street

FINDINGS from an inquiry into Malop Street’s Green Spine has prompted Geelong council to persist with investigating traffic flow and safety in the increasingly busy area.

Councillors resolved to seek a review of the Green Spine’s effectiveness in February, with the report revealing vehicle volumes have decreased by 56 per cent.

It also found during mid-day peak (between 12-1pm) pedestrian activity increased by 11 per cent, making up 75 per cent of all movement up and down the shopping strip.

Although the objective of the Green Spine was to develop an inviting streetscape, its establishment has induced delays in nearby side streets including Gheringhap and Bellarine streets.

Maximum delays occurred in the hour between 4-5pm for east-bound traffic, while maximum delays for west-bound motorists were between 5-6pm.

The results indicated that delays typically occurred at peak travel times and for short durations.

Some of the measures in the Malop Street Green Spine Investigation report include:
• Continuing to work with Regional Roads Victoria to improve traffic light phasing;
• Developing a public education campaign to reduce the number of cars blocking intersections; and
• Making changes to directional signage entering Central Geelong, particularly Malop Street.

Council will evaluate the changes in traffic conditions and driver behaviour after the improvements have been implemented, with a report to return to the city in March 2020.

Councillor Eddy Kontelj, who moved the notice of motion for the initial investigation, said the continuation of the report will assist council in making an “informed decision” on the Green Spine “going forward”.

“While the increase in greenery and other improvements have been very effective in helping the area become more appealing as a place to visit, I am still receiving feedback from retailers and the community that connectivity, safety and traffic need to be looked at,” Cr Kontelj said.

“I believe it’s our responsibility to examine all options and make sure the Green Spine is performing the best it possibly can in all aspects.”