By Luke Voogt
Highton traders have urged locals to have their say before tomorrow’s close of public consultation on alfresco plans that could change the face of the suburb.
More than 300 people have submitted responses so far to the council plans, which some traders believe could “kill” local strip shopping.
Highton Village Traders Association president Mary Petherick urged locals to submit improvements to the plans, rather than “for” or “against” responses.
“I definitely encourage people to take five or ten minutes tomorrow to think of how it could impact upon our future,” she said.
“It will certainly impact traders financially.“
Fellow association member and liquor store owner Tony Nardi said he had spoken to a few people who planned to object to the plans.
“Put your objection in by tomorrow because we have a problem with (the loss of parking) and we need everybody to have their say.”
The call follows a meeting of two dozen Highton Traders earlier this month about the plans.
Geelong’s council released two options to redevelop Highton featuring additional trees, alfresco dining areas, public plazas and bike lanes.
Plans to reduce on-street parking would drive customers away, cafe owner Joe Tripodi told two dozen traders.
“We’ll lose the whole crux of what Highton’s all about … honestly, I think it will kill Highton,” he said.
The traders echoed his sentiment and demanded any plans to develop Highton include a net gain of on-street parking.
The plans are available for comment on council’s ’Your Say’ webpage.
