Central Horsham business operators have been updated on streetscape improvement works scheduled for the coming months.
Last week’s information sessions provided up-to-date information on the roll out of three projects to happen in the central activity district (CAD).
They include two laneway art activations, the construction of six pedestrian crossings and the installation of new parking metres.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Kevin O’Brien said it was pleasing to see 15 business operators take the opportunity to talk with Horsham Rural City Council staff directly involved with the delivery of the projects.
“Our staff were keen to talk to operators about the timeframes for implementation and gain feedback on what was important for the businesses during that time,” Mr O’Brien said.
“There was some really useful thoughts provided which we will take on board as much as possible. Many of these supported Council’s plans to avoid works in Firebrace Street prior to Christmas so that there is less impact on Christmas trading,” he said.
Mr O’Brien noted the positive feedback around the laneway art activation projects.
“Business operators want the artwork focus to extend beyond Roberts Avenue and cover more laneways in the CBD,” Mr O’Brien said.
The need to support older community members with the implementation stages of the new parking meters was another topic of discussion.
Mr O’Brien indicated that the new meters would operate with coin, notes, credit card or phone.
“This will give people lots of payment options. The only new requirement will be that people must enter their car registration details,” he said.
“The CAD information sessions were also a good opportunity for business operators to ask questions and provide feedback on the Streetscape Plan recently adopted by Council.
“There was a lot of discussion and overall support for more trees in the CAD. We noted concerns around losing too many parking bays, tree canopy concealing business signage, the poor condition of current trees and the need to choose the right tree species for future planting.
Careful planning in the detailed design phase will take these comments into account,” Mr O’Brien said.
Business operators also supported the idea of heritage restoration work and it was noted that changes would not be mandated but voluntary with appropriate Council and funding support.
“Council greatly appreciates the time given by our local businesses to talk with Council which will enhance outcomes of future works in the CAD,” Mr O’Brien said.
