GEELONG’S CBD today came under the scrutiny of Melbourne’s urban design chief, Professor Rob Adams, and according to mayor Darryn Lyons came up with top marks for potential.
Cr Lyons invited Prof Adams to Geelong, saying he was a great innovator who had achieved considerable success with central Melbourne features.
“Prof Adams is a visionary and we were extremely interested in his comments on Geelong as we walked around the local central precinct,” Cr Lyons said.
“He emphasised the importance of increased residential numbers in central Geelong.”
Prof Adams agreed to be mayoral advisor for Geelong’s CBD vision.
Cr Lyons said that among his recommendations was that the fronts of some public buildings be opened up to the street.
“This would make them more inclusive, more welcoming and activate the street for those passing by,” Cr Lyons said.
“Prof Adams also suggested we develop more ‘pocket parks’, more green spaces around Central Geelong and a greater consistency in street furniture.
“The professor suggested we concentrate our landscape improvement efforts on the most visible spaces around town.
“He stressed that flowers and trees were important to brighten the place up.”
Cr Lyons said Prof Adams had been highly impressed with the potential of Geelong’s laneways, particularly McLarty Place, off Little Malop Street, and some of the other small lanes in that vicinity.
