The Greater Geelong council has rejected a proposed Transport Network Operating Plan for the Geelong CBD, instead requesting that work begin on new 10- and 20-year transport plans for Greater Geelong.
Council had been asked to endorse a plan that only covered streets between (and including) Latrobe Terrace to the east, Garden Street to the west, Fyans Street to the south and Western Beach Road to the north.
It prioritised certain streets for pedestrian, bike and vehicle movement, but did not include public transport.
Instead, councillors voted in favour of an amendment put forward by Cr Eddy Kontelj, which requests City staff and the Department of Transport produce region-wide plans that include and prioritise public transport.
It calls on those developing the plans to explore "innovative public transport initiatives, including light rail, trackless trams and buses," with the aim of establishing "an effective, efficient, safe and world-class public transport network."
The amendment also states that the new plans must:
- Prioritise accessibility for members of the community with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users;
- provide a clear vision for the long-term management of east-west traffic through central Geelong; and
- establish efficient transport connections for east-west travelling heavy vehicles, away from central Geelong. Cr Kontelj made it clear that this must be done in a manner that improves road safety and travel times, and also productivity for heavy vehicle operators.
In addition to the creation of a new transport plan, the council has also resolved to advocate to the state government on several major transport initiatives:
- Immediate improvements to bus services across the region;
- a budget commitment and timeline for the construction of the Bellarine Link;
- upgrades of Fyans Street and Breakwater Road, aimed at encouraging heavy vehicles to use these routes in preference to Ryrie and McKillop Streets; and
- a viability and financial assessment to plan and build a bridge across Corio Bay;
Feedback on the draft Transport Network Operating Plan released late last year supported directing trucks away from Ryrie Street, but indicated strong concern from McKillop Street residents about the possibility of increased heavy vehicle travel in front of their homes.
Cr Kontelj's amendment was carried on a 10-1 vote, with all councillors in favour except Cr Jim Mason.
Councillor Stephanie Asher - Mayor
This is a determination by council that the shape and intent of the Transport Network Operating Plan in its present form don't meet what we need to achieve in terms of traffic and transport solutions in the Greater Geelong region.The document is myopic. Council wants to see a region-wide approach to transport planning, given movement in surrounding suburbs and towns impacts traffic flow into and through the CBD.
It's also essential that all public transport, including buses, is included in any long-term plan.
