Wollongong City Council is moving ahead with plans to refurbish Crown Street Mall. This week Council will lodge a Development Application for key components of the design with work anticipated to start in early 2012.

Administrator Dr Col Gellatly AO said this was an important opportunity for the community to see updated designs for the Mall.

“Over the last few years hundreds of people provided feedback to Council on plans to revitalise the Crown Street Mall,” Dr Gellatly said. “This DA incorporates the ideas and concepts from the public and it is now the community’s chance to see revised designs and comment on the proposed development.

“Some of the changes that have been incorporated into the designs following community feedback are the inclusion of more colour, different seating styles and more children’s play elements.

“Council will invest $14.2 million into the Crown Street Mall refurbishment over the next two years. Construction is due to start in early 2012.

“The revitalisation of Crown Street Mall was identified as the number one priority in our City Centre Action plan. This is an important investment by council to encourage private investment in the city centre.

“We will be working with local businesses to ensure that work takes place outside the busy Christmas shopping period and to try and ensure minimal disruption to shoppers and businesses,” Dr Gellatly said.

Council will hold two information kiosks in Crown Street Mall (near the Information Booth) at the Friday Markets in Crown St Mall on 6 May from 12 noon – 2pm and on Saturday 14 May between 11am – 1pm.  There will also be a retailer information session.

For further information, or to view the Development Application and designs developed by the Government Architect’s Office, go to our website www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au.