We will be renewing the footpath along the Pakington Street shopping precinct in Geelong West as part of our ongoing commitment to providing safe, accessible and well-maintained public spaces.
Footpath Renewal – Pakington Street Geelong West
Overview
While this project forms part of our regular asset renewal program, it has also been prioritised in response to community feedback about the condition of the existing footpath and the high number of maintenance requests received over time.
Why this work is needed
The current footpath, constructed using bricks and pavers more than 30 years ago, is now showing significant wear.
In several locations, tree roots, uneven surfaces and slippery conditions have created stability issues. These factors have contributed to reported trips and falls over the years, highlighting the need for renewal.
What we’re doing
To improve safety and accessibility, the existing brick paving will be removed and replaced with a new asphalt footpath.
The design will include brick edging that divides the footpath into approximately three-metre by three-metre sections, maintaining a look that complements the shopping precinct.
Benefits of the new design
This approach will:
- Provide a more durable and stable surface
- Allow individual sections to be more easily repaired or replaced if affected by tree roots or utility works
- Maintain a consistent and visually appropriate appearance across the precinct
- Asphalt surfaces can also be reopened to pedestrians within a few hours of being laid, helping to minimise disruption to local businesses and foot traffic.
Proposed style - asphalt with brick boarder
Proposed style - asphalt with brick boarder 
Proposed style - asphalt with brick boarder
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Community consultation
Consultation with local traders was undertaken in the second half of 2025 through a “Have Your Say” community engagement process. Feedback received indicated no opposition to the proposed works.
Staged delivery approach
The project will be delivered in two stages.
Stage 1 will focus on the footpath renewal and minor infrastructure improvements across three sections in Pakington Street.
Construction and notifications
Construction is scheduled to commence on: 15 April 2026
Stakeholders will be notified prior to the start of construction via a letter drop. In addition, on-site signage will be installed before works begin to inform the community about the nature and expected duration of the project.
Temporary footpath closures and potential road detours may be required during construction. High-traffic areas will be prioritised to minimise disruption to pedestrians and businesses. The use of asphalt will allow areas to reopen quickly, reducing downtime.
Works overview
Stage 1 will focus on footpath renewal and minor infrastructure upgrades across three sections of Pakington Street.
Section 1: Between Isabella Street and Britannia Street (including existing brick paving at Isabella Street)
Section 2: Between Waratah Street and Lawton Avenue
Section 3: Between Hope Street and Autumn Street (excluding the pocket park and in front of the post office)
Footpath and infrastructure improvements
Across the three sections, a range of infrastructure improvements will be undertaken, depending on location-specific needs, including:
- Minor stormwater pit upgrades
- Installation and replacement of bench seating
- Bicycle rack upgrades
- Installation of tactiles
Tactiles are specially textured surfaces installed in or near pedestrian areas that provide physical (underfoot) cues for people who are blind or have low vision. They can be felt underfoot or with a cane and are designed to warn or guide pedestrians near roadside environments.
Bin upgrades
Stage 1 will also include upgrades to existing bins along Pakington Street, improving functionality and consistency throughout the shopping precinct.
Stage 2 will deliver an upgraded pocket park for informal gatherings and integrated art in the second half of 2026.
Upgraded pocket park for Geelong West
Geelong West will welcome an upgraded pocket park in the second half of 2026, designed to support small gatherings and integrated public art.
Location and design
The underutilised space at the corner of Pakington, Hope and Yuille Street will be transformed into a welcoming public place featuring:
- Public art installations
- New paving
- Seating
- Greening and beautification work
These improvements will help attract people to spend more time in the precinct and support local shopping and dining along Pakington Street.
Celebrating multicultural identity
The pocket park will celebrate Pakington Street’s rich multicultural identity through public art installations, and create opportunities for ongoing cultural programs. The space is intended to strengthen inclusion, encourage local pride and enhance the precinct’s reputation as a vibrant community destination.
Project funding
This project is funded through a $250,000 Multicultural Business Precinct Revitalisation Program grant from the Victorian Government through Business Victoria, along with a $75,000 contribution from us.
Next steps
Upgrade of pocket park to be completed ahead of Pako Festa 2027.
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