THE Bridge Mall will retain its red brick pavers.
The City of Ballarat councillors last night voted against a proposal to replace the red brick pavers with a mix of bluestone and asphalt at its regular meeting.
Cr Stephen Jones presented an alternative recommendation outlining 11 priorities which would focus on factors including improved weather protection.
All councillors supported the recommendation at last night's meeting which was packed by Bridge Mall traders.
Bridge Mall traders did not support the initial priorities of works, particularly the issue of replacing the majority of pavers.
They had committed $500,000 to the Bridge Mall redevelopment, but that was in jeopardy if its concerns were not resolved.
Traders felt retaining the pavers would be less disruptive and money saved would be better spent on improving signage, lighting and wind protection - which were priorities for traders.
The City of Ballarat report recommended a compromise solution of addressing the wind issue with two canopies.
However, it maintained the need to remove the red brick paving.
It argued the brick pavers were dated, expensive to maintain and increased trip hazards.
Cr Jones met with traders over several weeks to discuss a new set of priorities.
They included:
Addressing paving problem by the removal of errant tree roots and problem trees
Large weather protection canopy in centre of Bridge mall and also at Norwich Plaza and Coliseum Walk
Wind protection barriers at western end of the Bridge Mall.
Seating, lighting, banner poles, litter bins, bollards, information signs and signage, landscaping, play area upgrade.
The delivery of these priorities will depend on funding.
Cr Jones also presented a petition calling for the red brick pavers to be retained, which had more than 3000 signatures.