The City of Mount Gambier has completed the footpath extension along the frontage of the State Heritage listed Jens Hotel, delivering safer pedestrian access and an improved streetscape that creates new opportunities for outdoor dining.
This project forms part of Council's ongoing commitment to foster a more vibrant, accessible and engaging CBD, while also celebrating the city's iconic local heritage buildings.
In late 2024, Council engaged place-based social research specialists Place Score to assess the performance of the city's public realm against nationally benchmarked data.
City of Mount Gambier General Manager City Infrastructure Barbara Cernovskis said that more than 450 local residents, traders and visitors took part in the study, resulting in themes that have helped to guide Council's initial investments and shape longer term thinking.
"Place Score's independent data shows that our community values a welcoming, vibrant and well maintained CBD, with more opportunities to spend time, connect and enjoy what makes Mount Gambier unique. The introduction of new outdoor dining space directly supports those priorities by creating a more inviting and people focused environment," Ms Cernovskis said.
"Located alongside one of our city's many cherished heritage buildings, this initiative also further enhances the character and atmosphere of Commercial Street East. It strengthens the street's appeal throughout the day and into the evening, aligning with the community's desire for a more active and enjoyable night time experience."
The project also responds to Council's commitment to building a more accessible city centre. In 2023, Council commissioned Victoria Walks to undertake an independent accessibility audit of the CBD, which highlighted a range of practical improvements to support better movement and access for all city users.
"This project serves as an early trial of ideas that will inform Council's upcoming CBD Master Plan project - a strategic blueprint that draws on recent studies, technical expertise, best practice design and local community knowledge. The insights gathered as part of this process will help shape future investment and establish the frameworks needed for the CBD to evolve in line with our community's aspirations," City of Mount Gambier Strategic Development and Engagement Coordinator Ben Kilsby said.
Council thanks nearby businesses and the community for their cooperation and support throughout construction.
