This summer, the Altona Beach Precinct will once again be transformed into a pedestrian only zone, following positive community feedback from last year’s trial.
The Esplanade from Bent Street to Pier Street will be closed to cars from 1 December to 28 February to create a safer environment for pedestrians, reduce hoon driving behaviour and support Council and police surveillance.
Similar to last year, this pedestrian-friendly space will feature a table tennis table and other large games, moveable street furniture, tree planter boxes and temporary ‘beach box’ shelters.
This year, Council has also added more beach umbrellas and a portable basketball hoop. Some parallel parking spots on the beach end of Pier Street will also be converted into extended outdoor dining areas.
The pedestrian safe zone will also compliment Council’s Accessible Beaches Program by providing a safer and more convenient connection between the all-access beach matting and the accessible change facility located at Weaver Reserve.
Council is working closely with the Altona Village Traders Association to support a program of events at Weaver Reserve, market stalls, beach pop-ups and free of charge “Waterfront Workouts” in the precinct.
Throughout the summer period, there will be road detours in place. Cyclists will be asked to either dismount at the pedestrian safe zone or alternatively follow the road detours or use the shared trail along the beachfront at low speeds.
There may also be additional temporary road closures within Pier Street from Queen Street to Weaver Reserve to support large-scale special summer events. Community information will be provided on these occasions.
