Bid to expand laneways
Council commits to acquiring buildings as it backs action plan
BUILDINGS on Ryrie and Malop streets would be acquired to create open laneways, under a newly-backed plan.
The Geelong council has committed to acquiring the land and considering funding for the joint initiative, following a $2.7 million investment from the State Government.
Councillors on Tuesday night endorsed the Laneways Action Plan, which aims to increase pedestrian access throughout central Geelong.
Buildings identified for acquisition include: THE Guf Geelong site at 28 Malop St, to create a link through Dennys Place to runs from the waterfront to Little Malop St’s West End precinct; and, NOODLE Box at 184 Ryrie St, allowing a link from Market St through Union St to the Little Malop St mall.
Mayor Bruce Harwood said the creation of extra laneways would improve the usability and amenity of the CBD.
“It will be easier and quicker for people walking from one side of the city to the other,” he said. “It will increase safety by increasing the number of vis- ible doorways and windows along a laneway and it will also provide more attractive and vibrant spaces.”
The project began by extensively upgrading the laneways off Little Malop’s West End last year.
Works provided more space for al fresco dining, new paving, improved lighting, new street furniture, trees, plants and public artworks.
New links to the Market Square and Westfield shopping centres are also being explored.
While increased pedestrian safety is a key ambition, Cr Ron Nelson said the venture would also help businesses.
“This action plan ensures we can make the most of these laneway connections and drive increased economic benefits and jobs to the CBD,” he said.
The proposed acquisition of the Guf building was first floated almost three years ago, sparking protests from the city’s gaming community. A petition calling for the venue to be saved gathered about 1400 signatures.
The council said the Dennys Place connection was ranked higher than the McLarty Place option, given it lined up with Clare and James streets at either end.