GEELONG council has vowed to work with key stakeholders to restore the city\u2019s problematic Little Malop Street meeting place.<\/p>\n
Council asked COGG chief executive officer Martin Cutter to lodge a report by the end of next month outlining initiatives the city could bring into effect by no later than December 15.<\/p>\n
The decision came last Tuesday after Brownbill ward councillor Eddy Kontelj moved the motion, with community concern about the mall\u2019s safety and inclusiveness at the heart of council\u2019s commitment.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are significant strategic discussions and planning happening as to what should be made of the mall in the future,\u201d Cr Kontelj said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s very positive, but we can\u2019t wait for that long-term change to occur. There\u2019s no doubt there are some great initiatives already taking place, but I believe there\u2019s more that can be done in the short and medium-term.\u201d<\/p>\n
Cr Kontelj called on his fellow councillors to treat the issue with a sense of urgency.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis notice of motion is about taking ownership and improving the mall now, not in two or three years\u2019 time,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s about installing continuous and consistent activation initiatives into the mall to make it a more engaging, appealing and safer place to spend time.\u201d<\/p>\n
The \u201ccomprehensive master plan\u201d will include a range of short and medium-term initiatives to \u201cactivate\u201d the crime-ridden hang-out spot.<\/p>\n
Council has allocated $250,000 to the mall\u2019s redevelopment, which will include a community engagement process over a six to eight-month consultation period.<\/p>\n
Acting Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy said he welcomed any initiatives that may help Little Malop Central transition into a more \u201cinviting, family-friendly and vibrant space\u201d.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
GEELONG council has vowed to work with key stakeholders to restore the city\u2019s problematic Little Malop Street meeting place. Council asked COGG chief executive officer Martin Cutter to lodge a report by the end of next month outlining initiatives the city could bring into effect by no later than December 15. The decision came last […]<\/p>\n