Current situation
- Sorell Council has allocated funding to build a footpath on Carlton Beach Road from East Street to Raprinner Street in Carlton.
- Council has prepared an initial concept design for the project.
The issue
- Local residents have not been meaningfully involved in the design process. This includes important decisions about where the footpath is located, how it interfaces with private properties, drainage, parking, vegetation and access.
- Without community input there is a risk the final design creates avoidable impacts and frustration for residents and is not fully utilised.
My plan
- Engage the community immediately to understand local ideas, concerns and priorities before any detailed design work proceeds.Hold two road walking workshops where Council staff walk the route with residents to discuss issues, opportunities and site specific concerns
- Provide an open and accessible community survey based on the early concept design to capture broader feedback
- Ensure feedback is collected from affected residents as well as the wider Carlton community
- Incorporate all feedback into the final design
- Publish a short public report summarising feedback and clearly responding to each key issue raised
The Benefits
- A footpath design that reflects local knowledge and lived experience
- Improved safety outcomes for pedestrians, children and people with mobility challenges
- Fewer disputes, delays and redesign costs during construction
- Stronger trust between Council and the community
- A finished project the community feels ownership of and pride in