More than 150 people took a glimpse of the council’s draft Goulburn CBD plan displayed in a ‘pop-up’ shop on Wednesday.
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The day, held next to the Westpac Bank in Auburn Street, gathered feedback on the plan developed by consultants, Spacelab.
The council’s Growth Strategy and Culture director Louise Wakefield said 160 people dropped in and 43 gave feedback, including members of the former CBD Future Car Parking Working Party, the Goulburn Heritage Group and The Goulburn Group.
Mrs Wakefield said 30 per cent of visitors supported the planned changes, while 70pc were concerned about potential parking impacts.
“There was not enough support to get rid of angle parking in some parts of Auburn Street but there may be some areas of the CBD that are suitable for parallel parking, which then opens up the opportunity for outdoor dining and landscaping,” she said.
Likewise, a proposed bike path in southern Auburn St was “contentious.” Mrs Wakefield said people preferred a more logical link in Bourke Street to the Wollondilly Walking Trail.
More seating and ridding old signage from shops were also among the hot topics.
“There was a lot of positive support and the feedback gives us balance and perspective,” she said.
“We understand the negative comments (too). The council doesn’t have any preconceived ideas and we genuinely want feedback.
“...There were some terrific ideas presented by the community, with some coming well prepared, and they will inform a report to the council following the extended consultation period.”
Public exhibition was due to end in late February but was extended to April 28 following a meeting with Goulburn Chamber of Commerce members on February 21.
Works decided upon would be implemented progressively, in line with budget allocations.
Kel and Judy Elward were among those surveying the draft plan.
“I like it and I think the CBD is looking good at the moment too,” Mrs Elward said.
“I like the idea of the parklets and opening up the laneways (for shops and pedestrians).”
Another resident, Anne Oliver, believed most of it was dependent upon the council regaining control of Auburn Street from the Roads and Maritime Service. The council is negotiating with RMS to reclassify Auburn Street from a State to a local road, giving it more control over improvements.
“That impacts on everything else,” Mrs Oliver said.
“Safety is also a concern with the (proposed) bike lanes. Why couldn’t those be in a side street? It was interesting though to hear other people’s views. I think the council also needs to hold a session for working people and those living out of town.”
Meantime, the Chamber of Commerce discussed the draft plan at its monthly meeting on Wednesday. President Mark Bradbury said a working party would be formed to coordinate the Chamber’s response. Members would also be surveyed about the document.