Works to improve and decorate the road surface on Blacksmiths Way in Belgrave have been completed, providing a better driving surface and interesting look for the laneway.
In December, a project began to improve the road surface in Blacksmiths Way, resurfacing the pavement and adding a coloured surface that resembles water.
Yarra Ranges Deputy Mayor, Johanna Skelton, said the project accompanied other public artwork in the area, to highlight the importance of protecting the environment.
“All of our public drains eventually run out to waterways, providing drainage for our towns and helping to prevent flooding,” Cr Skelton said.
“Over many years, Council and other organisations have been working to highlight the importance of reducing waste, putting your rubbish and recyclables in the bin – if you litter, that litter will end up in our waterways, risking the wellbeing of plants and animals in the Dandenongs and further downstream.
“The new surface in Blacksmiths Way accompanies a nearby platypus mural as a reminder that our actions can directly help – or harm – native wildlife like local platypuses.
“This is the first stage of our works in this wonderful, under-utilised spot in Belgrave, which we’re hoping to turn into a zone that pedestrians and motorists will share.”
The skid-resistant coloured road surface is made from 100 per cent recycled glass, combined with a resin binder used in bicycle lanes. The glass used was sourced from Victoria, made from windscreens, plate glass and particular types of bottles.
The resurfacing project was partially funded by the Victorian Government through Sustainability Victoria’s Sustainable Infrastructure Fund – an initiative that supports local governments to use recycled materials in infrastructure projects.
Cr Skelton said that works had recently taken place to fix the coloured surface, after an error from the contractor.
“The contractor came back to fix up the surface’s colouring at no cost to our community,” she said.
“We appreciate the understanding and patience of the community as works started up again, and I think the new road surface looks so much better than it did previously.
“We need to continue improving the entrance to Belgrave for train passengers and for those accessing the Rail Trail from Blacksmiths Way. Improving this arrival area and the laneway will hopefully entice people coming to Puffing Billy by train to walk along the main street first, and perhaps stop into the shops.
“I’ve always loved the painted murals along the laneway that previous artist groups established and love seeing people wander along the lane to see the art.
“I hope the Laneway can continue to be improved to provide a space in Belgrave that is away from the busy main road. It could be used for markets, festivals or outdoor dining.
“At the moment, it provides parking and access for businesses, as well as pedestrian and cycling links to Tecoma and beyond so the Draft Master Plan will need to take into account those uses.
“This glass surface is a great step in improving Belgrave’s town centre and I know we are all keen to see more.”
Last year, Council asked the community to share issues and opportunities that currently exist in Blacksmiths Way.
Issues highlighted were the lack of proper pedestrian connections, invasive weed species along the railway corridor, traffic and signage issues.
A number of ideas were raised, including improvements to bin storage, opportunities for lighting, seating and bins, water-sensitive urban design, planting and activation of the space.
Council will develop a Draft Landscape Master Plan in the coming months.
This draft plan will be presented to the community for more feedback, before projects are finalised and get underway.
