Faith Macale
When it comes to beautiful landscapes and views, it is normal to preserve its beauty and keep it unobstructed.
Blackwood residents, who described the town as Melbourne’s hidden gem, have worked hard to preserve its historical assets.
But when a guardrail was installed in a bus stop at the centre of the town with the view of the Wombat State Forest, the Blackwood Progress Association said the rail ruined the town’s iconic view.
Blackwood Progress Association member and long-time Blackwood resident Brendan Hehir said major upgrades were welcomed but asked Moorabool council to keep in mind that Blackwood is a beautiful, historic town.
“We said don’t put anything that will detract from the look of the town,” he said.
“We made it very clear that the iconic view out to the west from the centre of the town has the most magnificent view.
“The locals love it, they watch the sun go down on that view regularly.”
Mr Hehir said the view is what tourists loved about the town, but the guardrail has ruined the experience for visitors.
“Having asked many visitors what they think, none of the visitors liked it,” he said.
The guardrail has also became a concern for safety.
“This rail has attracted the children to play on it, risking a fall onto the concrete below,” Mr Hehir said.
“We requested the rail be removed immediately and alternatives explored in consultation with the community.”
According to Mr Hehir, the guardrail was installed after the bus stop pavement was elevated during an upgrade.
Mr Hehir said the community wasn’t consulted about the addition of the guardrail.
“If you sit down on the seat at the bus stop, which a lot of people sit on to look at the view, there’s nothing but ugly rail,” Mr Hehir said.
“I did a quick survey around town immediately, and found that everybody hates it.”
A petition made by Blackwood Progress Association received 43 signatures.
“Council received the petition at its recent meeting, and has requested officers prepare a report for Council’s consideration at a later date,” a Council spokesperson said.
