Council is reviewing its Road Management Plan and is inviting the community to help shape how local roads, footpaths, and related infrastructure are managed and serviced.

Maintaining more than 3000 kilometres of Council-managed roads, along with 191 bridges and 310 kilometres of footpaths, is a major logistical task across the shire. The Road Management Plan provides a framework for how Council inspects and maintains key infrastructure, including roads, roadsides, footpaths, drainage and roadside vegetation.

Council is seeking community input to help determine service standard priorities for the next four years. Residents are encouraged to share their views about what matters most, whether it is road safety, footpath conditions, maintenance response parameters, drainage, or vegetation management – including hazardous trees.

“Maintaining more than 3000 kilometres of roads across such a large and diverse region is no small task. Our roads connect communities, support local business, and provide vital access in emergencies,” Mayor John White said.

The survey asks residents to rank services based on current performance and importance – covering sealed and unsealed roads, urban and rural roads, footpaths, and drainage. Council will then use this data in its future infrastructure planning.

"This review is about making sure we’re setting the right priorities and directing resources where they matter most - and the voices of our many communities is central to that,” John said.

The rising cost of infrastructure maintenance means careful allocation of funds is more important than ever. Community input will help guide these decisions, ensuring the updated plan aligns with local needs and expectations.

The Road Management Plan outlines: • Standards for road inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure consistency and efficiency. • Maintenance priorities, balancing safety, accessibility and available resources. • Council’s responsibilities and service levels to manage the road network. • Long-term strategies for infrastructure renewal and sustainability.

Council encourages residents, businesses, transport operators, cyclists and pedestrians to have their say by completing an online survey at yoursay.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au by Friday 13 June.

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