Work to renew the footpath along Pakington Street’s bustling shopping precinct is set to begin after Pako Festa 2026.
The upgrade is part of the City of Greater Geelong’s annual asset renewal program and responds directly to continued community requests for minor repairs.
Built over 30 years ago with bricks and pavers, the footpath the footpath is no longer providing the community with the expected level of service. It will be replaced with an asphalt surface, featuring brick-edged segments measuring three metres by three metres.
This segmented design allows for easier repairs caused by tree roots or utility works, while maintaining a consistent look. Asphalt also cures quickly, enabling sections to reopen within hours and minimising disruption to businesses and pedestrians.
Temporary footpath closures and road detours will be required. Affected stakeholders have been notified and there will be further consultation with local traders before works commence.
The project, estimated at about $500,000, will be funded through the City’s Capital Renewal Program and delivered in three stages:
- Area A: Isabella Street to Britannia Street (including the brick section within Isabella Street)
- Area B: Waratah Street to Lawton Avenue
- Area C: Hope Street to Autumn Street
On-site signage will be installed prior to construction to inform the community about the project’s scope and timeline.
This project is being delivered under the City’s Asset Service Level Preservation framework, which focuses on extending asset life, reducing maintenance costs, and preserving functionality without compromising aesthetics or future urban design upgrades.
A similar project has recently been completed at Highton Shopping Village on Belle Vue Ave.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
I want to thank the community for their ongoing feedback and cooperation as we work to improve the safety and usability of our public spaces.
This upgrade will deliver a more stable and accessible footpath that better supports the needs of traders, shoppers, and visitors to this vibrant precinct.
City Services, Capital Works and Parks & Gardens portfolio chair Councillor Trent Sullivan
We’ve listened to the concerns of local traders and residents, and this renewal is a practical step forward.
The new design strikes a balance between function and aesthetics, while also reducing long-term maintenance disruptions.
Geelong West Business Association President and owner of Mr Brown’s Menswear Cameron Brown
The Geelong West Business Association welcomes the investment toward pedestrian safety in the area.This work is being delivered outside of the Pakington Street Urban Design Framework (UDF) as part of Council’s footpath renewal program. It will also ensure the footpath remains safe and accessible until the UDF project is completed.
Pako has always been a favourite of the community for its walkability so ensuring footpath trip and slip hazards are addressed is critical.