Vincentia's Burton Street Mall has long been a handy hub for the local community, but a $4.3 million upgrade has transformed it into a stunning public space that provides a social heart.
Green space designed around mature Eucalypts has created the perfect focal point for play, gathering, markets and entertainment and complements the mall's existing retail and dining areas.
Mayor Amanda Findley said the revitalisation of the mall would have far-reaching benefits for the village shopkeepers and the community.
"This is placemaking at its finest – a reinvention of public space that connects people with amenity to enhance wellbeing and sociability," Cr Findley said.
"This revitalisation will attract more retailers, cafes and restaurants to the mall and in turn increase tourist and local visitation, as well as support the local and regional economy," she said.
"Vincentia is enhanced by this vibrant village vibe that promises to be a destination for shopping, dining, art and entertainment."
The project was partially funded thanks to $1.7 million from the Australian Government. Shoalhaven Council contributed $2.6 million.
The upgrade includes:
- A raised outdoor dining area
- Shade structures
- Improved carpark of approximately 440m2 and associated access
- Amenity upgrade to create an aesthetically pleasing toilet block including two accessible toilets
- Landscaping including planting, irrigation, walling, steps, footpaths and paving with a nature-based theme reflecting the Jervis Bay aesthetic
- Installation of furniture including lighting, shelters, park seating, park picnic settings, bin enclosures and water station
- A playground (coming in the new year) and water play area.
Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips said the project was the result of extensive community and business consultation to deliver a public space that would attract businesses, locals and buoy the tourist economy.
"What an absolutely stunning transformation this has been for the Vincentia community – enhancing this already great local shopping precinct into a tourism drawcard that provides local people with the services and attractions we need and want."
"I really want to thank the local community for their patience and understanding through this long process – I know it's been hard on retailers, and hard on shoppers, but we now have a beautiful shopping precinct that can service our community well into the future."
"I have been absolutely delighted to support this work with an Australian Government grant and can't wait to see the new facilities we will attract to this lovely space."
Vincentia shopping Village is now primed for holiday season shopping and festivities. Head to their website
