WHAT THEY SAID
“The traffic issues and congestion has frustrated and angered a portion of the community and retailers in Malop Street alike whilst also raising safety concerns for pedestrians and the disabled.”
“Sometimes you have to really admit it when you haven’t got it right, and with Malop St we haven’t got it right.”
“I’m so disappointed and really angry about the decision council has made last night … I keep hoping the City of Greater Geelong is going to improve, but clearly not. Their governance, their decision-making has not improved at all, and I think we’re all being let down by our council.”
“These changes are modifications to the Green Spine in response to strong community feedback … it’s become clear that our community is frustrated with the traffic congestion along Malop St, and as their elected representatives it’s our duty to respond.”
“This motion, if fully endorsed, will undermine the fundamental purpose of the green spine and revitalisation of central Geelong. Increasing traffic flow and increasing parking spaces flies in the face of the original purpose.”
“To rip part of this up would be a backwards step. There’s no evidence to suggest the green spine is not working. What’s being voted on here tonight is to spend $2 million of ratepayer’s money on a hunch.”
“We’ve been provided with no evidence as to why it’s necessary. There has been nothing produced other than that we’re told there is a segment of the community that are not happy with the green spine. We may lose control of this, the green strip itself, and maybe even the city.”
“I am deeply concerned about the bully boy tactics of the State Labor Government and, in particular, Bellarine MP Lisa Neville over the Green Spine planning issues.”
“They spent $8 million and now they’re digging it up again? Such a waste of money. I don’t like. It will get very dusty and dirty, and noisy.”
“As a trader who is in this strip, I think it’s a good idea, however the process — if they’re planning on taking way too long — just like they did for the (introduction of the) Green Spine, I think it will sabotage our livelihood, our business.
“It’s going to be tough. It’s a good idea, I think it will generating more parking will generate more people coming into Geelong.”
“It’s a good thing. It will be easier for people to get through the city. The lack of parking now makes it harder for us on weekends, especially with parties trying to come in.”