Cowes streetscape plan: people before cars. By Catherine Watson
WIDER footpaths, new landscaping and safer streets are on the way as Stage 1 of the Cowes Streetscape Master Plan kicks off next month.
The project aims to “flip the transport hierarchy” by prioritising pedestrians and creating “streets for people,” while also linking the northern and southern ends of town.
On Wednesday Bass Coast Shire Council awarded the $8.26 million contract for the first stage of the long-awaited Cowes Streetscape Master Plan to Fulton Hogan Construction Pty Ltd.
Stage 1 works will focus on reshaping the heart of Cowes, with upgrades to Thompson Avenue North (between Chapel Street and The Esplanade) and The Esplanade (between Warley Avenue and Bass Avenue).
WIDER footpaths, new landscaping and safer streets are on the way as Stage 1 of the Cowes Streetscape Master Plan kicks off next month.
The project aims to “flip the transport hierarchy” by prioritising pedestrians and creating “streets for people,” while also linking the northern and southern ends of town.
On Wednesday Bass Coast Shire Council awarded the $8.26 million contract for the first stage of the long-awaited Cowes Streetscape Master Plan to Fulton Hogan Construction Pty Ltd.
Stage 1 works will focus on reshaping the heart of Cowes, with upgrades to Thompson Avenue North (between Chapel Street and The Esplanade) and The Esplanade (between Warley Avenue and Bass Avenue).
The redevelopment will include road and footpath upgrades, landscaping, water main realignment and minor drainage works.
Council secured $8 million in federal funding for the project under the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, with an additional $1.6 million allocated in its long-term financial plan. The total project cost, including contingencies, design and management, is estimated at $9.76 million.
Work is expected to begin on September 1 and take just over a year to complete.
Council officers noted Fulton Hogan’s “capacity, capability and experience” as key reasons for awarding the contract, along with pricing that fit within the available budget.
The council has set aside a 15 per cent contingency – higher than the usual 10 per cent – to manage risks, recognising the potential for unforeseen costs in a project of this scale.
The project is expected to be delivered in stages over two financial years:
Council says it will continue to liaise with traders and the community throughout the works to minimise disruption.
The Cowes Streetscape Master Plan has been in development for several years following community consultation. Stage 1 is regarded as a critical step towards reshaping the town centre into a more people-friendly, attractive and economically resilient hub.
Council secured $8 million in federal funding for the project under the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, with an additional $1.6 million allocated in its long-term financial plan. The total project cost, including contingencies, design and management, is estimated at $9.76 million.
Work is expected to begin on September 1 and take just over a year to complete.
Council officers noted Fulton Hogan’s “capacity, capability and experience” as key reasons for awarding the contract, along with pricing that fit within the available budget.
The council has set aside a 15 per cent contingency – higher than the usual 10 per cent – to manage risks, recognising the potential for unforeseen costs in a project of this scale.
The project is expected to be delivered in stages over two financial years:
- 2025–26: $3.67 million
- 2026–27: $5.93 million
Council says it will continue to liaise with traders and the community throughout the works to minimise disruption.
The Cowes Streetscape Master Plan has been in development for several years following community consultation. Stage 1 is regarded as a critical step towards reshaping the town centre into a more people-friendly, attractive and economically resilient hub.