Hornsby Mall will come alive as an al fresco destination having successfully secured a grant in the next round of the NSW Government's Streets as Shared Spaces program.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock said the area has been provided $500,000 to brighten the community space and bring residents together.
"We're excited that this grant will reinvigorate Hornsby by enlivening the Mall, making is somewhere for people to spend time together, enjoy community events, or even dine outside in their revitalised surrounds," Mayor Ruddock said.
The funding will be used to elevate the daytime and night-time social, cultural and economic activity in the precinct through:
- Upgraded lighting
- Outdoor dining furniture and seating enhancements for the public
- Digital wayfinding
- Delivery of increased community events
"If these exciting new enhancements gain widespread community support, we'll look to make them permanent so more people can enjoy the outdoors and connect with those around them on our busy market days or in the evenings which tend to be quieter," Mayor Ruddock continued.
Member for Hornsby Matt Kean talked about what the project means for the area.
"This exciting project will beautify the area by providing more public space for the community to sit, relax and catch up with friends. It is about activating the mall and making it a more enjoyable place for families across our community which in turn means more business for our local shops and cafes."
The project, fully funded by the grant, will commence this month with the enhancements installed by October 2022, followed by launch events in December 2022.
This is the third grant from the NSW Government to activate Hornsby's CBD, with more than $1.5 million received. Last year, Hunter Lane was given an eye-catching makeover with colourful street art thanks to the first round of Streets as Shared Spaces, while a Your High Street grant will create a lively 'eat street' on Coronation Street.
The Streets as Shared Spaces program provides funding for councils to test and pilot new and innovative ideas that temporarily adapt streets as safe, shared public spaces to support healthier, safe and resilient communities.
