The City of Greater Geelong will close the CBD’s most popular nightlife strip to general vehicle traffic overnight on weekends to ensure emergency vehicle access.
From 10pm to 5am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights Little Malop Street will be closed to most vehicles between Gheringhap Street and Moorabool Street.
During those times the new restrictions, which will take effect from the beginning of December, will see access restricted to emergency services and permit holders such as tenants and businesses.
The City of Greater Geelong has encouraged people to use pick up zones on the wider Malop and Ryrie Streets and the taxi zone on Moorabool Street.
Superintendent Mick Reid said people wanted to feel safe while enjoying themselves at night in the city and the new changes supported that.
“This change will give police and emergency services much better access through the precinct, which means we can respond faster, prevent issues before they escalate and keep people safe,” he said.
“It’s pleasing to see this being implemented ahead of a very busy Christmas and summer period, when thousands of people will be out enjoying Geelong’s nightlife.
“Police already run targeted operations in the CBD focused on public safety and preventing crime – this change will complement that operational work.
“You’ll continue to see police highly visible in and around Geelong, engaging and working closely with licensed premises to keep the precinct safe.”
Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the move was being made to ensure safety.
“It’s great to see so many people enjoying Little Malop Street during the weekend, but it’s so important that everyone can get home safely and that an emergency response is available promptly when required,” he said.
“We don’t want to see a situation where someone needs help, but the response is impeded by traffic delays, which is why, for safety, we’re directing most non-emergency service vehicles to the pick up zones, creating a safe pathway for emergency services.”
“It’s important to note that this only applies between 10pm and 5am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, so most of the time, things will continue to operate as they are now; however, we believe this step is necessary during those peak times.”
