Published: 19 May 2026
Cardinia Shire Council has unveiled new plans for Stages 2 and 3 of the Pakenham Revitalisation project, setting out the future vision for the town centre.
As part of Stage 2, streetscape upgrades will reimagine the Drake Place precinct from the Railway Hotel to John Street. Stage 3 upgrades will then continue along John Street from Drake Place towards the Main Street roundabout.
Upgrades are focused on transforming this precinct into a safer, greener and more welcoming space for everyone, and are proposed to include:
- New road pavement and upgraded paving
- New wide, accessible footpaths
- Safer pedestrian crossings
- Additional lighting and new power bollards
- Landscaping and drainage improvements
- Improved parking and turning movements
- More comfortable seating, benches, bike racks, bins and picnic tables
Following the May 2026 Council Meeting, Council has appointed Blue Peak Constructions as the contractor for the Stage 2 and 3 upgrades.
The Stage 2 and 3 tenders were jointly valued at $6.98 million and will be funded by Cardinia Shire Council, the Level Crossing Removal Project and the Victorian Government's Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution fund.
Cardinia Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Brett Owen says that upgrading Pakenham's town centre is a high priority project for Council.
"As more people start to call Pakenham home, we're focused on creating a safer, more accessible and vibrant town centre that better meets the needs of our growing community."
"Drake Place and John Street connect directly into the town centre and the new Pakenham Community Hospital, so it's important that we build a space where people feel safe, supported and comfortable to get around." Mayor Owen said.
"There are currently limited, pedestrian links around Drake Place, so improving accessibility, connection and safety were priorities for us."
"We're making this precinct more pedestrian-friendly by installing wider footpaths and new crossings, as well as additional lighting to improve visibility and community safety. We hope that these upgrades will make a real difference for locals, businesses and visitors alike." Mayor Owen said.
Across Drake Place and John Street, the plans include over 180 parking spaces, including 8 accessible bays. Changes to the existing road layout, parking bays and turning movements are required to support the introduction of new, safer pedestrian footpaths and crossings.
Deputy Mayor and Henty Ward Councillor Liz Roberts says that the works will help bring new life and activity into Pakenham's town centre.
"We're creating spaces that encourage people to stay, spend time and enjoy their surroundings right here in the heart of Pakenham."
Revitalised landscaping is included in the plans to help create a greener Pakenham. Garden beds and mature shade trees will be planted using specialised underground soil systems to help them grow stronger and healthier into the future.
"With more greenery, seating and better lighting, and electrical power bollards, this precinct will become a community hub, able to support future events, pop‑ups and community activities." Cr Roberts said.
Council will continue to work with impacted traders to understand how best to assist and support them throughout construction.
Construction is expected to start from July 2026, with completion expected by mid-2027.
