All fixed, such a re-leaf
CBD disruption ends as Green Spine opens
THE barriers have come down as works on the southern side of Geelong’s $8 million CBD Green Spine project were finished yesterday.
The striking feature of the tree-lined street is an 8m-wide “Botanic Walk,” complemented by one-way bike lanes, outdoor seating and dining areas.
It is the first in a planned series of works on Malop St, with the State Government and City of Greater Geelong aiming to create a green connection from Johnstone Park to the Botanic Gardens.
The improvement program had stung businesses on the shopping strip, with visitors shying away from the con- struction zone since July.
Business owners reported trade had dropped by up to 80 per cent, with successful eateries and retailers forced to reduce opening hours and cut employees’ shifts.
Rook Sri Lankan Fusion owner Yeti Kumbukage now hopes the modern and treelined street will attract new customers and help arrest the downturn.
“We had a pretty rough time for the past four months,” Mr Kumbukage said.
“But we had to keep going — this is my first business, so I never wanted to give up.”
While he continued to open daily, there were days where Mr Kumbukage worked alone to save on staff costs.
Casual workers were let go, but are now being re-employed as Rook prepares for a busy festive period.
“This is a very good opportunity,” Mr Kumbukage said of the revamped street.
“Not all people (like it), but this is a very positive change.”
Traders will be able to fully engage with Tuesday’s Sidewalk Sales event and next Saturday’s Gala Day parade.
Completed on schedule, the works focus on the southern side of the block between Moorabool and Yarra streets.
Works on the northern side will not start until next year, with tools downed over Christmas and New Year.
Funding for the next stage, from Gheringhap St to Moorabool St, is being sought.