The Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network is a huge project for our local community and will improve safety and connectivity for everyone.
Lately, I’ve had a few people asking for updates. If you’re walking the same streets and not seeing activity, it can feel like nothing’s happening.
But I want to be clear – the project hasn’t stopped – far from it. In fact, a lot has been happening behind the scenes to make sure this footpath network isn’t just built quickly; it’s built properly.
The Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network is a major project that will connect more people to the places they need to go, whether that’s schools, sports facilities, shops or other local businesses.
It’s also about ensuring people of all ages and abilities can get around safely and comfortably.
The City has already delivered almost 6km of new footpath, and many of you will have seen the crews out this week on The Parade.
Capella Way and Dare Street are next on the list for construction to begin, and there are many streets currently in the tendering phase.
In the background, there are four critical steps the City of Greater Geelong has been working through:
Doing right by ratepayers – The City is running an open tender process for each stage to make sure we’re getting the best value for money on each section of work. It’s the responsible way to go, but it means the work happens in stages, not all at once.
Designing for all abilities – We’ve had some great input from locals who live with disability and mobility challenges. Their insight has shaped the way we’re designing paths, so the footpaths are suitable for people of all abilities.
Cultural heritage overlays – Some of the land sits within heritage overlay areas. We’ve brought in specialists to ascertain what needs protecting before works begin.
Planning restrictions – Ocean Grove is full of beautiful trees and native vegetation. In some areas, that’s meant we’ve had to shift plans slightly to protect plants and trees impacting alignment.
There have also been a few practical challenges. Things like steep driveways, uneven terrain and underground infrastructure from service providers have meant a path may change to the other side of the street or get rerouted slightly. You’ll hear from the City directly if a change affects your property.
Where some footpaths can’t go ahead, we’re looking at alternate routes that will still connect the community as intended in the scheme.
Please rest assured that the City of Greater Geelong remains fully committed to delivering the Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network as soon as possible. We’re doing it with care, community input, and long-term value in mind.
A community drop-in session will be held on Tuesday June 24 from 2.30pm to 6.30pm at Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre, 1 John Dory Drive, Ocean Grove. Please come along if you have questions about the project.
For more information on the project and to see which streets are planned next, please visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au/ogppn
Thanks to all of you for your patience as we build a network of footpaths that will safely and inclusively serve the Ocean Grove and Collendina communities for generations to come.
