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In 2019, the City approved the Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan worth $30 million. Its priority project was refreshing the Mall.<\/p>\n
In 2020, design firm Hassell was appointed to consult with the community and map-out an improved precinct, including Little Bridge and Curtis streets.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s been a lot of work with the Bridge Mall traders, Commerce Ballarat, Committee for Ballarat and wider community on what is the best way to activate the Bridge Mall,\u201d Mr King said.<\/p>\n
Tunbridges Interiors\u2019 Alastair Doull is president of the Traders Association, which supports the traffic plans.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a great thing for the area, which a vibrant one, and has historically been a big player in Ballarat\u2019s future from the goldfield days,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe rejuvenation is for the betterment of all our neighbours; small and large family businesses, nationals and multi-nationals, and will take it to the next level, getting it back to pride of place.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr King said the City wants a \u201cthriving, active, healthy, safe place\u201d for residents.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve got great parking on either side… and if we can get it opened up, people flowing through and dining on the sides of the street, it can become a jewel in the Ballarat crown.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople have a whole lot of views… but everyone I speak to wants it activated, and wants council to make it happen,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
If endorsed, further designs will be drawn to consider green spaces and events like the farmers market, before the City begins the tender process for a contractor in June.<\/p>\n
Construction is expected to begin in early 2022.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AT this month\u2019s City of Ballarat ordinary council meeting, councilors may vote to endorse a redeveloped Bridge Mall open to cars. City CEO Evan King announced the $15 million proposed works, essentially \u201cto extend Sturt Street,\u201d this week ahead of a decision on 24 March. \u201cThe plan is to open up the Bridge Mall to […]<\/p>\n