Blueprint to improve Blackwood

By Matt Romania

At an August meeting of Moorabool Shire Council, questions arose regarding potential improvements for the Blackwood township.

During Public Question Time, a resident sent in the question, “Why isn’t Council investing more into Blackwood and surrounding areas?”
In response, Phil Jeffrey, General Manager – Community Assets & Infrastructure, elaborated on the forthcoming Township Improvement Plan for Blackwood.

“Officers will be looking to implement the priority actions this financial year following some further engagement with the community,” he said, highlighting the $240,000 budget allocation.

Cr Ally Munari (Woodlands Ward) drew attention to the significance of updating and modernising signage around town, with an emphasis on attracting more visitors to Blackwood.

“We had a robust discussion about this, and it was great to have lots of community consultation,” she said.

“The progress committee let the (Council) officers know about the outdated signage in Blackwood, in terms of all different things such as B&Bs that haven’t been there for years, as well as road signs.”

Acknowledging this, Mr. Jeffrey confirmed a comprehensive signage update in Blackwood as part of the plan’s execution.

The improvement plan, moved by Cr. Munari and seconded by Cr. Sullivan, secured unanimous approval from the attending councillors.

Among the key upgrades are measures to bolster safety and accessibility. Proposals include safe footpaths, pedestrian crossings, and pram ramps for improved pedestrian mobility.

Infrastructure is also set to witness a transformation with planned upgrades to retaining walls, particularly at Martin Street and crucial intersections, and enhancements to drainage systems to prevent flooding.

Aesthetically, Martin Street is earmarked for street parking on both sides. The town’s green spaces will be rejuvenated with the plantation of deciduous trees. The plan also emphasises replacing worn-out amenities like seats, bin stands, and drinking fountains. Alongside these developments, a comprehensive signage audit is in the pipeline.

Although the current blueprint might stretch the $240,000 budget, the Council has identified priorities based on community feedback. These include a footpath extension, pivotal drainage upgrades at high-risk flooding areas, on-street parking, additional town seating, and a strategic tree plantation drive.