Goya Dmytryshchak
A ‘GreenLine’ enabling Spotswood and South Kingsville residents to cycle to the city in 20 minutes could be built under Hobsons Bay council’s Better Places program.
Community feedback is being sought on 16 proposed projects to make the two suburbs better places to live, work and visit.
The GreenLine shared pathway would run through the heart of Spotswood and South Kingsville, linking to the Federation Trail and planned West Gate Tunnel Veloway.
The Hudsons Road, Spotswood, and Vernon Street, South Kingsville shopping villages would be made more pedestrian and bike friendly, with expanded 40 km/h zones and other measures.
Pop-up outdoor dining spaces in closed-off streets, like that in Altona’s Pier Street, could be developed.
Spotswood’s industrial area would be revamped to attract more diverse businesses.
The council has vowed to advocate for improvements to the public transport network, including the Westgate Punt passenger and cyclist ferry service between Spotswood and Port Melbourne.
Hobsons Bay mayor Jonathon Marsden said the plans would retain the suburbs’ identities while preparing for future growth.
“Spotswood and South Kingsville have undergone an immense amount of change over the past decade,” he said.
“With the population set to double over the next 15 years, we need to think strategically about how we can retain the things we love about these neighbourhoods, while providing for the future needs of the community.”
The council plans to work with local historians, cultural leaders, artists and creatives to highlight the history of the area with heritage street signs, public art and a ‘Hidden Histories’ walking tour.
New and improved open spaces would be created and a greening program developed, with improved links to places like Stony Creek, Riverside Park and Newport Lakes Reserve.
Community feedback is being invited until August 11.
For detailed plans, visit better-places.com.au
