A preferred option for the Surf Parade Shared Path in Inverloch has been endorsed by Council at its 15 May 2024 Council Meeting. The option of a one-way road and full parking provision between Ozone and Goroke streets has been endorsed following consultation. The preferred option enables planning to continue to construct the final 550m section of Surf Parade to the Surf Club.
Last year, Council presented two options for Stage 3b of the shared pathway and asked the community to select which option they preferred. The first option allowed for parking and one-way traffic on Surf Parade, while the second retained a two-way traffic flow without any parking.
We had 616 people complete the survey with a with a result too close for a clear outcome.
Traffic modelling, undertaken by independent experts, cited that Option 1 offered the most benefits to the community, while advice from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Change that only options outside of the coastal reserve would be approved. Both options identified improved safety outcomes for all road users.
This decision allows for the commencement of the statutory process required to make the section of Surf Parade one way. The endorsed option will now go in to the 2025/26 budget process to consider funding the required amount for construction.
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Clare Le Serve said the Council decision on a preferred option allows for planning to occur with view to constructing the final stage of the Surf Parade shared pathway. The decision is in line with Councils Tracks and Trails Strategy and intended to form part of a future link for a continuous path between Wonthaggi and Inverloch.
"This is an exciting step towards realising an outcome for a long-awaited, important piece of infrastructure for both the community and visitors, which will give them the opportunity to enjoy walking and cycling trails in one of the best parts of Victoria[AC1] ," Cr Le Serve said.
"The final stage of the Surf Parade shared pathway is expected to be widely used by Inverloch residents and visitors and provide safer pedestrian access to the popular Inverloch Surf Beach.
"We acknowledge the concerns raised by the community on the endorsed option and council officers will monitor traffic once the intended construction has been completed. There is also potential for Council to undertake further treatments to mitigate any traffic impacts caused by the change, if necessary."
Stage 3b of the Surf Parade shared pathway is expected to be complete by 2026, subject to funding.
