Help shape the design for Aireys Inlet top shops area

Published on 05 December 2024

Aireys Inlet locals and visitors are invited to help shape a design to improve the entrance to the town’s top shops area on the Great Ocean Road.

Surf Coast Shire Council is seeking community input to create a detailed design for a small-scale, relaxed, green coastal village space at the top shops.

The engagement period will open Sunday 15 December 2024 and close Sunday 12 January 2025, offering various ways for people to have their say.

Council staff will be at Aireys Inlet Market at the community hall on Sunday 15 December from 9am to 1pm. People can also pop by the top shops to talk with Council staff on Tuesday 17 December (9.30am to 11.30am) or Friday 20 December (11.30am to 1pm).

An online survey will be available at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/AireysTopShops.

Councillor Libby Stapleton said community input would be valuable.

“We’re aiming for a detailed design that will lay the foundation for a casual gathering place – whether that be meeting a friend, stopping by the top shops to pick something up, or simply to take some time out,” she said. “It would also complement outdoor trading by the adjacent shops.”

People will be able to identify access, parking, and safety improvements, as well as ways to encourage community connection: from street furniture and shaded areas to bike parking, dog bowls and a community noticeboard.

“We’d also love to hear your views on how we can enhance the visual appeal of the area, including plants and the types of materials that should be used,” Cr Stapleton said.

“There will be more opportunities to have your say as the project progresses.

“Ultimately, a final detailed design will be considered by Council and if endorsed, we’ll use it to seek funding for the construction phase of the project.”

The Aireys Inlet Top Shops Design Improvements features in two of Council’s long-term strategic planning documents: the Aireys Inlet Top and Bottom Shops Urban Design Framework 2015 and the Aireys Inlet to Eastern View Structure Plan 2015.

“This project will reflect what we’ve heard previously from the Aireys community: that Aireys Inlet’s treasured coastal village character and natural beauty should be protected and enhanced,” Cr Stapleton said.

“Our town is full of passionate locals. I encourage you all to provide feedback so a diverse range of views are considered.”

To learn more and to have your say from 15 December 2024, visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/AireysInletTopShops.