New-look Bridge Mall opens tomorrow

THE official opening of the Bridge Mall redevelopment will take place this Saturday 15 March from 11am with a ribbon-cutting, Wadawurrung Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony.

The project works worth $23.3 million included the creation of a new shared 10-kilometre per hour car and pedestrian zone, the Grenville and Sturt Street intersection upgrade, 20 short-term carparks, a new play space, smart lighting, seating and landscaping, a portal view to the Yarrowee River, a Wadawurrung Traditional Owners’ history and culture display and more.

As part of the opening event, Vintage and Classic Car Club Ballarat vehicles will parade along the new shared bluestone carriageway, there will be carnival-themed festivities, food, and a display of historic photos.

“The association continues to receive many positive endorsements about the new space – from traders, the community and the new investment the project has attracted,” said Bridge Mall Business Association president Wendy McLachlan.

“Our entrance from Sturt Street connecting our mall to the CBD is very grand and pedestrian friendly.

“The shared space with vehicles will allow better access for our customers that are dropping off and picking up.

“We are all embracing positive change and loving the new space now and look forward to what the future holds.”

The new road through the Bridge Mall will open on Sunday 16 March. The redevelopment comes under the City’s Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan.

“The redevelopment brings a new modern public space, improved accessibility and a vibrant atmosphere that will benefit residents, visitors and local businesses for years to come,” said City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves.

“We are proud to deliver a space that enhances our community’s social and economic vibrancy and creates a more inviting and accessible destination for all.

“We encourage everyone to come along, celebrate with us and experience the new Bridge Mall.”