Hargreaves Mall set for overhaul

THINGS are going to look different in Hargreaves Mall as the precinct is set to undergo renovations over the next two years.

The works, which are scheduled to get underway in February, will eventually include the addition of a big screen public viewing area, shade sail, landscaping, and a row of palm trees.

Also set to begin early next year is construction of a six-story, 110-room, 4.5-star ACCOR Mantra Hotel on the former Thomas Jewellers and Bendigo Community Pharmacy sites.

“Over the next few years there will be some big changes in the Mall, which will help to further activate the area and make it a more exciting and inviting space to stay, dine, shop, hold events or open a new business,” said Brian Westley, the City of Greater Bendigo’s director of presentation and assets.

“The 2018 Transforming the City Centre Action Plan found the community wanted to see more colour, shade and softness in the Mall.

“The City has listened to this feedback and that is what the screen, shade shelter and landscaping intend to deliver.”

The planned works on the hotel have meant the municipality has delayed the start of the landscaping, shade sail and palm tree installation until 2023, however the big screen TV should be in place by early next year.

Located at the Mitchell Street end of the mall, the screen will be used to show movies, video clips, concerts, sports, as well as messages from the community. The screen will also have a camera that people in the mall can interact with.

“Just like shopping centres that are updated every seven to 10 years, outdoor public spaces and shopping areas that fulfil a similar purpose also need to be invested in,” Mr Westley said.

“The last Mall redevelopment was in 2010, so it is nearly 12 years old in its current form.”