Orbost - Nicholson Street footpath renewal
Project updates are provided in the tab below
The upgrade of a section of the Nicholson Street footpath will be completed as part of Council's asset maintenance program.
Pedestrian infrastructure plays a crucial role in creating livable, safe, and vibrant communities. The section of existing footpath on the east side of Nicholson Street, between McLeod Street and Clarke Street, will be upgraded to create a safe and accessible footpath, together with landscaping for aesthetic appeal.
Objective and scope
The objective of this project is to renew a section of footpath to promote safe pedestrian movement and ensure compliance whilst reducing ongoing maintenance costs. Potential landscaping next the footpath seeks to enhance the visitor appeal of the town.
The scope of works includes removal of certain trees to prevent further root damage, renewal of footpath pavement, and investigation of underground drainage.
Consultation and community engagement
An expression of interest for project reference group members was open from 12 March to 2 April 2025. Thank you to those who submitted their application.
Funding
The upgrade of the Nicholson Street footpath will be completed as part of Council's asset maintenance program in 2025.
We welcome your continued interest in this project; project updates will be provided on YourSay in the tab below, when available. Please click 'Subscribe' at the top of the page to follow this project and to receive important information directly to your inbox.
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Nicholson Street Progress update April 2026
Share Nicholson Street Progress update April 2026 on Facebook Share Nicholson Street Progress update April 2026 on Twitter Share Nicholson Street Progress update April 2026 on Linkedin Email Nicholson Street Progress update April 2026 linkWorks 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.
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📅 March 2026
Share 📅 March 2026 on Facebook Share 📅 March 2026 on Twitter Share 📅 March 2026 on Linkedin Email 📅 March 2026 linkDetailed 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.
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📅 February 2026
Share 📅 February 2026 on Facebook Share 📅 February 2026 on Twitter Share 📅 February 2026 on Linkedin Email 📅 February 2026 linkNicholson 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.
