After lengthy consultation and exhaustive design considerations, the Bridge Mall project is ready to move into the next exciting phase of development.
The project is part of the $15 million Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan adopted in October 2019 - one of the biggest and boldest CBD re-developments ever undertaken by Council. It is both a vital part of COVID-19 recovery and key to enabling the Ballarat CBD to thrive over coming decades.
This current phase of the design focuses on function, specifically, how people can travel and move through the Bridge Mall and surrounding area in a way that provides the most community and business benefit.
City of Ballarat Councillors will at the March 24 Ordinary Council meeting, consider a report recommending they endorse the key components of a precinct plan, including directional traffic flow through the Bridge Mall.
The preferred option provides main vehicle access via Sturt Street travelling one-way through the Bridge Mall. This option allows for the inclusion of new greenspace and parkland, general tree planting, improvements to crossings, and other changes to create a significantly more pedestrian- friendly, safer, and attractive destination. This option also supports greater access by locals who outspend visitors $3 to $1.
The alternate precinct plan presented as part of the Council Report, would enable direct one-way vehicle access from Victoria Street, for those arriving from the east.
Evan King, City of Ballarat CEO, said the Bridge Mall redevelopment was a well- researched, consulted and detailed process involving one of the most-respected firms in the business - experts in recreating inviting, thriving shopping precincts where people want to spend time and money.
"The detailed plans allow people to visualise how a new precinct can support and improve one of Ballarat's most critical CBD thoroughfares and we can't wait to share that vision with our community," he said.
Mr King noted the opportunity for Council's investment to significantly improve the area in the short term, but most importantly act as a catalyst for future investment.
