Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the proposed street upgrade designs through surveys, newsfeeds, and information sharing.

Your input was invaluable in shaping the final design approach, ensuring that community values and practical needs are considered in the final design. Design comments have been sent to the consultant for implementation.

What we heard:

West of Bairnsdale City Oval

The focus of the engagement was to understand community sentiment regarding the installation of a new footpath on the north side of Rupert Street and the potential removal of existing street trees.

What we heard:

• Majority support for a footpath: Most respondents highlighted safety and accessibility benefits, noting issues such as muddy and uneven ground, blocked gutters from falling leaves, and poor visibility caused by tree placement.
• Maintenance concerns: Trees were seen as contributing to drainage problems and requiring frequent trimming under power lines.
• Alternative ideas: One respondent suggested planter boxes and shrubs to maintain greenery while improving usability.
• Opposing view: One participant preferred retaining trees for shade and protection from swooping magpies.

East of Bairnsdale City Oval

Participants advocated for sustainable, cost-effective solutions that reflect the character of the area and called for continued community involvement in the planning process. The feedback underscores the community’s desire for a balanced approach that enhances safety and functionality while preserving the street’s unique identity.

• Strong preference for Option 1: 75% of respondents supported retaining the existing partly single, partly divided carriageway.
• Key priorities:
  • Improve safety at the Service Street intersection
  • Additional parking near community facilities
• Environmental concerns: Participants opposed unnecessary concrete infrastructure, citing impacts on green space and drainage.
• Community values: Feedback emphasised sustainable, cost-effective solutions that preserve the street’s character and natural features.

What happens next?

• Final design recommendations have been sent to the consultant for implementation.
• Construction planning will incorporate:
  • A footpath solution for Rupert Street West that addresses safety concerns and connects with Bairnsdale Oval and Dalmahoy Street.
  • A new two-way Entrance for Bairnsdale Oval.
  • Tying in the new pavement and kerb at Rupert Street West with Ligar Street.
  • Retention of the existing carriageway layout for Rupert Street East, with targeted improvements for safety and parking.
  • Informal parking arrangement adjacent to the U3A facility at Ruper Street (east of Bairnsdale City Oval).
  • Upgraded drainage infrastructure including new kerb and channel, additional pits for both sections of Ruper Street, and a gross pollutant trap outfall on Suding Street.
  • Construction is subject to future budget availability.

We welcome your continued interest in this project. Further updates will be shared as the project progresses.