EXPECT traffic snarls and changes to pedestrian traffic along Thompson Avenue and The Esplanade in Cowes as work gets underway on the Cowes Foreshore Precinct.
Local residents have been warned Thompson Avenue North and The Esplanade between Bass Avenue and Warley Avenue will be closed to traffic from September 29.
Pedestrian access will be maintained via the foreshore path until the work is completed.
The $8 million project is being funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program along with Bass Coast Shire Council and some private investment in revitalising Cowes.
Stage 1 of the project is expected to be completed by December 2025.
According to Bass Coast Shire the upgrades are a vital step in bringing the Cowes community’s long-term vision to life, creating safer, greener and more connected spaces that locals can be proud of and visitors will love to explore.
The total project will be done in seven stages and is expected to be completed in 13 months subject to weather and unforeseen construction delays.
The project will create ‘Streets for People’ by prioritising pedestrians and sustainable transport, building stronger connections between the township and the foreshore, and reinvigorating the character of Cowes by boosting local business and community life.
The first stage will focus on upgrading essential services and creating the foundations for a safer and more welcoming precinct including renewing water and sewer mains, upgrading stormwater drainage, and reconstructing the road and pavement to better support outdoor dining spaces and a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
The works upgrade will also deliver new kerb and channelling, upgraded public lighting, and fresh landscaping to help create greener, safer and more inviting spaces for families, shoppers and visitors.
A permanent change to one-way eastbound traffic along The Esplanade will also be introduced to improve safety and create more space for people to walk and cycle.
Council has been working closely with Cowes traders throughout the design and planning of the project to ensure their voices are heard and their needs understood.
“As construction gets underway Council will continue to support businesses through the ‘Trading through Transformation’ campaign which will promote Cowes as a welcoming destination during the works, encouraging the community and visitors to shop local, dine out, and continue to enjoy everything the township has to offer.”
Wayfinding signage, marketing support, and regular updates will help residents and visitors confidently navigate the area while ensuring local businesses have as little disruption to trading as possible and Cowes maintains its vibrancy.
The community has been told to expect civil and landscaping works including the construction of new footpaths, landscaping, and road realignments, the use of heavy machinery resulting in some noise, vibration and dust, temporary traffic management measures that may cause occasional delays, and limited access to some roads and footpaths.
More information on the Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project can be found at basscoast.vic.gov.au/about-council/news-listing/notice-of-upcoming-works-cowes-foreshore-precinct
