Geelong’s Green Spine will be protected with the Andrews Labor Government preparing to declare the Mercer Street, Malop Street and Garden Street corridor a Designated Road Project under state control.

Minister for Roads Jaala Pulford has written to the City of Greater Geelong directing them not to undertake any works that are not in line with the Malop Street Green Spine Project. The council will have seven days to respond.

The Green Spine project is transforming Central Geelong and restoring one of Geelong’s oldest roads to meet the needs of a modern city.

The Labor Government has invested $8 million in the Green Spine, a key project in the 10-year Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan.

Taking control of the project from the City of Greater Geelong responds to community concern over a recent council decision to spend $2 million ripping up parts of the project already built.

The decision gives the Government the authority to both protect work already done on Malop Street and complete the project to deliver a better transport network for Geelong.

The $8 million stage one of the Green Spine Project is an extensive redevelopment that includes an eight-metre-wide botanic walk on the south side of Malop Street, complemented by more trees and planting on the north side, separated bike lanes and a complete rebuilding on the roadway.

The Government is preparing to declare the project a Designated Road Project under Victoria’s Road Management Act to continue delivering the Green Spine as well as getting on with detailed design for the next stages.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford

“We’re taking action to secure the Green Spine, ensuring Geelong has a world-class city centre and transport network that is ready for the future.”

“This decision will ensure the Green Spine goes ahead – delivering on our commitment and giving locals the certainty they deserve.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville

“I won’t stand by and watch a reckless Council take a wrecking ball to our beautiful Green Spine – spending $2 million ripping up work already done in Malop Street is a backwards step and waste of money.”

“The Green Spine is an important part of the Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan and a fundamental part of securing the economic success of our city.”

Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“We want to make sure Geelong reaps the full benefits of the Green Spine – which is exactly what we’re doing.”