The creation of new Community Corner, featuring artistic elements and seating is just one of the open space projects being delivered as part of Port Stephen's Council Streets as Shared Spaces program in Raymond Terrace.
Mayor Ryan Palmer said this program of works is all about prioritising people, focussing on connectivity and creating new opportunities for community connection and pride.
"In 2020 we asked the community about their vision for Raymond Terrace, developing the Raymond Terrace Public Domain Plan, and since then, we've been rolling out a program of works to help see this vision become a reality," Mayor Palmer said.
"Improving Raymond Terrace is a key action the community elected me on and I'm proud that we've been able to access a range of grant funding programs to make action happen.
"From early May, thanks to the NSW Government Streets as Shared Spaces Program, we'll be implementing a range of activations across Raymond Terrace, including street and footpath stamping, a street art program, a celebration of our Marriage Trees, creation of a community corner, installation of new wayfinding signage and new community events and activations," he added.
Vibrant Places Coordinator Amber Herrmann said thanks to funding like this, Council can continue to roll out the 20 year vision to revitalise the town centre and improve public spaces for our community.
"The 3 biggest priorities of the Raymond Terrace community are healthy streets, lively spaces and unique experiences, particularly in William Street, Adelaide Street and the river foreshore," Ms Herrmann said.
"As part of our Streets as Shared Spaces program, we're working with local aboriginal artists and students to bring vibrancy and colour to existing furniture, walls and other underutilised spaces, implementing pavement art designs within the William Street precinct and installing new wayfinding signage – all with the aim of linking key sites across the town.
"I'm really excited to see the creation of the Community Corner come to life at the old Fire Station site at the corner of William and Sturgeon Street, featuring a court area, special seating, art installations and fresh new landscaping and planting.
"We'll also be acknowledging the historical importance of the Marriage Trees and King Street area, improving the vibrancy of the site with improved signage, temporary seating, lighting and a play feature.
"Finally, to encourage social cohesion and to celebrate our reinvigorated spaces we'll be holding a range of community events and activations like the upcoming Illuminate Raymond Terrace and Raymond Terrace Festival," she added.
