The ACT Government is helping to make popular local shops even better and boost local construction with new designs released today for upgrades at Kaleen, Campbell and Duffy.
“This is the first in a series of substantial works to upgrade 11 shopping centres across Canberra as we work to recover from the ongoing economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel.
“These upgrades will support jobs and business, and encourage Canberrans to shop locally by improving public spaces and building vibrant local hubs.”
A construction tender has already been released to market for upgrades at Kaleen, with further contracts for Duffy and Campbell to go to market in the coming weeks. Construction will start on all three centres in early 2022.
“We know Canberrans love their local shops and we want to stimulate economic activity right across Canberra whilst renewing ageing infrastructure in our suburbs,” said Minister Steel.
“Importantly, we’re making sure these upgrades respond to community priorities, with residents having already provided feedback on the upgrades to the Kaleen (Gwydir Square), Duffy and Campbell shops earlier this year.”
The final upgrade designs have now been released alongside the community feedback reports for each of the local shops.
“We’ve heard that landscaping and tree planting are particularly high priorities for Canberrans. The consultation also highlighted that accessibility, safety and spaces providing opportunities for gathering and spending time with family and friends were important. This feedback has been reflected in the designs we’re putting forward for these works,” said Minister Steel.
“At Kaleen’s Gwydir Square, the government is delivering a significant number of improvements including new toilets, more carparks, better landscaping, seating and a shade structure at the playground.
“In Duffy, new toilets and improved landscaping will complement a new playground and bike track, connected with new paths.
“Upgrades at the Campbell shops will focus on making the space more accessible by improving paths, car parking and landscaping.
“Our community infrastructure investment program is an important part of our plans to see Canberra’s economy bounce back strongly in the months ahead, with many of these projects at – or close to – a shovel ready state.
“Additional shopping centres slated for upgrades include Narrabundah, Evatt, Macquarie, Monash, Calwell, as well as the group centres at Weston, Kippax and Lanyon.
“I look forward to seeing these upgrades completed and communities taking the opportunity to spend more time at their local shopping hubs.”
To read the listening reports and see the final designs visit: www.yoursayconversations.act.gov.au.
