We’re pleased to confirm that the Nicholson Street footpath renewal is now complete, with the final section of concrete path installed and all landscaping works finished.

The upgrade improves safety and accessibility along Nicholson Street, while also enhancing the streetscape and creating a more inviting space for the community. The works have been designed to complement the existing area, delivering a consistent and well-presented result.

This project was delivered by Council’s in-house Works team, with support from our Parks and Gardens crew. Their collaboration and attention to detail have contributed to the high-quality outcome now in place.

The completed footpath and landscaping provide a safer, more durable and welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors.

We thank the community, local traders and visitors for their patience and support during construction.

Works are continuing on the Nicholson Street footpath renewal, with good progress being made.

Project progress:

• New concrete footpath construction is underway from Clarke Street toward McLeod Street
• Works have reached approximately the halfway point between Clarke Street and McLeod Street
• Exposed aggregate edging is being installed to match the existing streetscape
• The renewed footpath will improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians

Works will continue toward McLeod Street end of Nicholson Street, and Council thanks the community for their patience during construction.

Detailed assessments of the trees, footpath conditions, and the underground services running beneath the area were completed. Works commenced at the start of March.

New planting standards require a larger setback and more space to install modern root barrier systems. Unfortunately, because of the location of the underground services directly adjacent to the planting zone, we’re not able to reinstall new trees in the same positions - there simply isn’t enough room to meet the requirements without risking damage to essential infrastructure or creating further maintenance issues in the future.

To enhance the street’s appearance while ensuring long‑term safety and infrastructure protection, we’ll be installing six low‑lying garden beds that match the existing streetscape. These garden beds will add greenery, improve the visual appeal of the area, and maintain clear sightlines for pedestrians and road users.

A new maple tree will be planted using a root-barrier system. This will help to retain the streetscape character and contribute to a consistent, attractive environment as it matures.

Click on the image to enlarge.

Nicholson Street footpath renewal to commence in March 2026

Renewal of approximately 115 metres of footpath along Nicholson Street will soon commence as part of our Asset Maintenance Program. These works will improve safety, accessibility, and the overall presentation of the town centre.

Works are scheduled to begin in early March 2026 and will be delivered in stages to minimise disruption. We are consulting with affected businesses regarding timing and access arrangements.

Traffic management will be in place throughout construction. Please follow onsite signage to help keep everyone safe.

The project includes:

• New garden beds at each corner to complement prior streetscape improvements.
• Construction of a new concrete footpath with an exposed‑aggregate edge.
• Temporary closure of nearby parking spaces during construction.
• Business access will be maintained.

As part of the renewal, the trees along this section of footpath will be removed. Council does not remove trees lightly - each removal follows careful assessment of tree health, safety risks, and impacts on surrounding infrastructure. Feedback from the community and local traders confirms the need for this to happen - the existing trees are causing significant damage to the footpath and pose a serious pedestrian safety hazard.

New street trees, selected to blend with the existing and upgraded streetscape, will be planted. To prevent future root‑related issues, a premium linear ribbed root barrier will be installed to direct roots downward and away from footpaths and services.

The detailed design plan is available for viewing here.

We look forward to delivering this renewal project to support residents, businesses, and visitors while enhancing the Orbost streetscape.