Businesses and individuals are invited to submit an expression of interest to become a temporary tenant at the Lanterns in Hargreaves Mall to showcase their goods and services or host pop up events.
The short term tenancies at the Lanterns aim to stimulate retail activity and bring new business, creativity and a variety of attractions to the Mall.
City of Greater Bendigo Director Strategy and Growth Bernie O'Sullivan said the initiative was an opportunity to support small businesses recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and promote themselves in a unique way in a high profile location.
"The pop-up spaces are suitable for all kinds of businesses from micro-retailers, creatives, start-ups, home-based or online ventures to fitness and wellbeing professionals who are interested in using these centrally located spaces," Mr O'Sullivan said.
"Tenancies will be short term, flexible and at no cost to successful applicants, and the City will provide significant logistical support.
"The activities at the Lanterns will complement the existing businesses in the Mall and these new tenants will have the opportunity to raise their profile and promote their brand, products or services or host pop up events in the heart of the city."
The two Lantern structures, which were former bathroom blocks, were refitted last year and repurposed to be suitable for new pop up spaces for businesses. The buildings have been refurbished to include a servery window that opens onto the Mall.
"Tenants occupying the Lanterns can also make use of the immediate outside area of the structure bases and under awnings.
"These are flexible spaces that would allow for a wide range of tenancies so we look forward to hearing ideas from applicants on how best they can use the spaces and create interest."
This initiative is in response to community consultation on the Hargreaves Mall and part of the Transforming the City Centre Action Plan. The overall aim is to further invigorate the vibrancy of the city centre as a great place to relax, shop and do business.
A new shade structure, a curved wood design, is expected to be installed in the Mall by August to provide all-weather protection and create a softer, welcoming space. The structure will allow the Mall to be used all year round and support a wider range of uses, including events, markets and entertainment. Initial work has also begun on a private hotel development in the Mall with the main demolition and building expected to start this winter.
To apply for a short term tenancy at the Lanterns, please visit: https://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Hargreaves-Mall
