Council Forges Ahead with Corryong Streetscape Project

Towong Shire Council will proceed with the Corryong CBD Streetscape Project as planned, following careful consideration of a community petition at the Special Council Meeting on 10 January 2024.

In response to the petition expressing concerns about a widened footpath impacting vehicle access and manoeuvrability in parking bays along Hanson Street, Council explored five different options. A motion for option two passed with a vote of 3 in favour and 2 against.

Towong Shire Council Mayor, Andrew Whitehead said that all possibilities were discussed at length before voting on this decision.

"We considered all available options and, as a result, Councillors decided option two was the most viable, balancing community concerns, cost-effectiveness, and the project's overarching objectives,” he said.

Option two maintains the original design but introduces a manoeuvring space behind parking bays, supports a reduced speed limit between the Donaldson and Jardine Street roundabouts, and commits to developing a plan that will expand parking spaces in the CBD.

In making its decision, Council considered the findings from an independent Road Safety Audit, community feedback, both in the community consultation stage of the project and more recently by way of the petition and further engagement with other community members and businesses during construction.

Mayor Whitehead acknowledged that there was a diversity of views on the project within the community.

"We understand that opinions on the streetscape upgrade vary. Unfortunately, we know this decision will not appease everyone, but we believe that this project will have lasting benefits for everyone in our community."

The Corryong CBD Streetscape Project aims to revitalise the CBD, improving street presentation, and fostering economic activity and tourism. Grant funding opportunities following the Black Summer Bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic aligned with the project's objectives, driving its initiation.

The Corryong Streetscape Project is a significant step toward revitalising the heart of Corryong, embodying the collective vision for a vibrant and inviting community space.