Mall redevelopment enters next stage

THE first stage of the Bridge Mall redevelopment has opened to the public.

The $23.3 million project includes a landscaped entry, a shared streetscape with one-way vehicle access, and bollards to provide easy closure for markets and events.

The project has led to more works in the area including the redevelopment of Norwich Plaza, and the opening of businesses such as Timezone, the Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, Flying Chillies and C Store Asian Grocery.

Duffs Jewellers and JM Leech Jewellers are scheduled to open soon.

“The space is looking visually spectacular – very open, light and bright, and we can’t wait until the project is fully completed connecting our mall to Sturt Street,” said Bridge Mall Business Association president, Wendy McLachlan.

“With Norwich Plaza fully renewed and vehicular access, the precinct will be transformed.

“The Association has received many positive endorsements about the new space from traders and the community, with the new investment the project has attracted.”

The Bridge Market returned last weekend, and Ms McLachlan thanked stallholders for their support throughout the construction period.

The final touches, which include the new bridge structure, will be completed before an official opening in December.

“We were thrilled to be awarded the redevelopment of Bridge Mall for the City of Ballarat and are equally thrilled to see this project approach its conclusion,” said 2Construct director, Peter Rahilly.

“Throughout the project we have strived to engage the local community and engage local subcontractors and suppliers.

“We look forward to seeing the revitalised Bridge Mall once again become a destination and focal point for the Ballarat community.”

In the coming weeks, the Grenville Street end of the mall will open to pedestrians and all lanes of Little Bridge Street will be reopened to vehicles.

Grenville Street will be closed from Sturt Street to Curtis Street from mid-September until October.