A totally refreshed streetscape, widened footpaths, new street furniture and more parking are just some of the features being considered in what will be some of the biggest enhancements to Mildura's CBD in decades.
Part of the Mildura CBD Plan 2020-2035, the CBD Revitalisation Project is the result of 12 months' work and an exhaustive consultation process with local traders and other key stakeholders.
As part of this work a series of concepts have been developed, taking in a range of upgrade and development opportunities for prominent areas of the CBD, including Feast Street and the Langtree Mall.
Mainly concentrated on the area bounded by Seventh and Eleventh Streets and Walnut and San Mateo Avenues, the concepts focus on:
- Access and connectivity enhancements for residents and visitors
- Connecting the Mildura CBD to the Riverfront
- Economic development and investment attraction
- Improved amenity and wayfinding throughout the CBD
- Revitalisation and regeneration of public realms
Some of the ideas detailed in the plan include introducing new vending stalls in the mall which would attract more people and provide opportunities for existing and new businesses, grassed areas and designated playspace to attract families.
More shade and general greening in the mall, including planting larger trees and grassed 'green nodes', additional lighting, including artistic lighting and lighting in trees, and adding misters are also options included in the plan.
Feast Street concepts detailed in the plan include wider footpaths with high quality paving and extra space for outdoor dining, more tree planting and parallel parking.
Mildura Rural City Councillor for Infrastructure and Assets Glenn Milne, who also Chairs the CBD Steering Committee, encouraged the community to view the concepts and provide their feedback.
"This is an exciting time for the future of our city's CBD, and an opportunity to improve not only the way we access and get around the precinct, but provide an even better experience for locals and visitors alike, whether they're shopping, dining out or accessing services," Cr Milne said.
"The concepts that have been developed in this plan promise to make for a more attractive, functional, entertaining and enjoyable place both to visit and do business."
Banjo's Café Bakery's Cassi Circosta, who is a member of the CBD Steering Committee, said the concepts in the CBD Revitalisation Project were informed by a broad range of stakeholders.
"As a CBD trader on the steering committee, we've been working on this for more than 12 months and it's been great to have the opportunity to provide input and see the results in the concepts that have now gone out for broader feedback," Ms Circosta said.
"One of the most rewarding aspects has been the ability to come together and create a shared vision that has agreement and support from those involved in this process.
"Now that we've completed this part of the process, I'm looking forward to seeing what the broader community, including my own customers, think about the concepts."
To view and provide feedback on the CBD Revitalisation Project visit https://yoursay.mildura.vic.gov.au
