Warragul CBD Streetscape Works On Track

Published on 19 June 2018

Works are nearing completion for the first five stages of the Warragul CBD Streetscape Project including construction of three new roundabouts on Mason Street and the one-way conversion of Palmerston Street.

The next stages, due to take place later this year, will see traffic lights installed at the intersection of Queen Street and Napier Street for improved safety and traffic flow and the one-way conversion of Smith Street (between Palmerston and Victoria Streets).

Additionally, streetscape design works will soon commence for sections of Victoria Street and Queen Street. These construction works are scheduled to take place in the 2019/20 financial year.

Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Councillor Joe Gauci said works are progressing well with already visible and functional improvements to the look and feel of the town centre.

“Each stage plays a key role in the overall project plan to address and improve pedestrian safety and access, traffic flow, accessible parking and crossings, drainage, landscaping and overall street appeal”, said the Mayor.

“We understand that it’s not always easy to see the bigger picture when isolated stages are taking shape. As the population in Warragul and surrounds continues to grow we have more and more people visiting and spending time in town. It’s impossible to create more space in the CBD area so we’re investing in improvements to maximise value where possible.

“In the long term, the project will support local retailers, restaurants and cafes by creating an accessible, safe and beautiful town centre encouraging more people to visit, shop, dine, occupy and enjoy the public areas.”

Through community consultation and further traffic studies, the initial six-stage $4 million project has evolved to include a broader scope of works. Three additional stages have been added to the project, increasing Council’s investment to close to $6 million. The three additional stages include the three Mason Street roundabouts, planned traffic lights at Queen and Napier Streets and the inclusion of further streetscape works on Victoria Street.

“We have increased the overall scope of works to ensure the outskirts of the CBD area are safe and functional, just as much as the inner precinct”, said the Mayor.

Council appreciates that there is a high degree of community interest in this project and is committed to working alongside the community to achieve the best possible result.

An information session specific to the next project stages (Queen/Napier Street and Smith Street) has been scheduled at 10.00am to 1.00pm on Wednesday 27 June at the Lions Club Kiosk on the corner of Palmerston Street and Smith Street, Warragul.

Community members interested in more project information, asking questions and providing feedback are highly encouraged to attend.

For further detail and explanation of all nine project stages, visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/WarragulStreetscape

Image: Warragul CBD Streetscape Project map and stages.

Image: Streetscape works along the north side of Smith Street.

Image: Safe and accessible pedestrian crossing at Smith Street.

Image: Accessible parking space on Smith Street.