Stage-2 new streetscape works commence in Ballan

By Meg Kennedy

The makeover of Ballan’s town centre is now underway, with new bench seats and car spaces the biggest additions to Inglis St in the new year.
Commencing on Monday, 14 January, Stage-2 of Ballan’s streetscape upgrade will see the south-side of Ballan – between Cowie and Fisken Streets – continue the redesign of Inglis St, which went under extensive upgrade works in August last year.
The area will see the installation of 11 bench seats, nine new parking spaces, five bins and three bicycle rails.
“In a growing community I am sure the nine extra car parks will benefit both the traders and community,” said Mayor Paul Tatchell.
“I would also like to acknowledge the business owners and community members that gave up considerable time to assist in the planning and design,” Cr Tatchell said.
Like previous works, the upgrade will include wider asphalt footpaths; the replacement of hard surfaces and nature strips with sawn bluestone paving; asphalt treatments; drainage improvements; improvement to pedestrian safety, including accessibility for road crossing points and disabled parking bays; and the installation of electrical conduits and pits to facilitate possible future conversion of overhead power to underground.
Although the works will see three trees be removed from the site, 15 trees will replace these.
Moorabool Shire Council says the removals “have been in consultation with Council’s landscape consultants, and the community reference group initially engaged during the planning phase and council officers.”
The project is expected to cost $647,000 and construction will be undertaken by Evergreen Civil Pty Ltd.
The streetscape works is expected to take six months to complete, in a staged process to minimise disruption in the area.