Traders along the Esplanade between Carpenter Street and Myer Street are excited about the improvements to the streetscape being planned by Regional Roads Victoria.
Jodie Goodman, owner of Six Sisters & a Pigeon Cafe, had no complaints about any of the alterations.
David Lyon, from King & Heath Lakes Entrance, concurred with this sentiment.
“It will give the area such a lift. The plans all look very modern,” he said.
“The extension to the footpath will give greater access, there may even be a bit of sun on it.
“It is pleasing to not be losing any parking spaces and getting rid of the parallel parking.
“We are all for it.”
While some community members are concerned about reversing out into traffic, David thinks everything will run smoothly.
“With the extra pedestrian crossings and a space between the parking bay and the actual road, I don’t think it will be a problem,” he said.
Stitches n Things proprietor, Karen Dettering, was also very enthusiastic about all the upgrades.
“The biggest problem for Lakes Entrance is people not wanting change, but we have to modernise and this is fabulous,” she said.
“The extra two metres on the footpath width will mean much more room and the trees will beautify the streetscape. The plans look so much more modern.”
Elaine Medhurst, of Just Books, is pleased that finally something is being done for Lakes Entrance.
“Between the wonderful new streetscape and Darren Chester’ s push for a walkway along the lake between Main and Eastern Beach, things are looking promising,” she said.
“I have no concerns with the new plans. The new footpaths, parking and greenery will really freshen up the area.
“It would be an asset if they included more barbecues and bins along the foreshore.”
Greg Jerkins, of Footbridge Mini Golf, is also very happy with the plans.
“More room on the footpath is a real bonus,” he said.
The traders all agreed that getting rid of the parallel parking is a very good decision as it holds traffic up and some drivers just aren’t confident reversing into parking bays.
