Why is this project taking place?
An upgrade of the Boddington Town Centre was identified as a key priority during community consultation for the development of the Council Plan 2022-2032.
The need for the upgrade is driven by factors including:
- Ageing infrastructure ‐ including seating, footpaths, kerbs and landscaping;
- The desire to increase tourism activity
- Car parking accessibility
The project will consider priority areas for improvement such as:
- New and upgraded footpaths;
- New streetscape furniture including seats, signs, public art and bins; and
- Additional landscaping, including more or replacement street trees.
How much will the project cost?
The total project cost, including significant elements such as undergrounding of power, is $6,612,499. The project will be progressed in logical stages as funding becomes available.
What is the timing of construction?
It is likely that project will be staged over 4 years from 2023/24 to 2027/28.
What's Happened to Date?
Public engagement occurred in early 2023, with community submissions presented to Council at the July Ordinary Council Meeting 2023, at which time Council adopted the Final Masterplan.
Project elements that were completed in 2023/24 include:
- Installation of vibrant street bins depicting images of the local area and key events
- Planting of trees along Bannister Road
- Removal of the fence surrounding the Old School to open up the area into a welcoming space
- Installation of Street Banners
- Installation of 3 murals:
The first mural on the southern wall of the Boddington Fire Brigade Shed, created by Jacob Butler 'Shakey' with Joseph Boin, tells the story of Henry Boddington, a shepherd from the late 1800s.
The second mural in Hotham Park, by Imogen Palmer, Hayley Smith, and Susan Respinger, showcases local flora and fauna, including the Western Whistler and Scarlet Robin.
The final mural along Bannister Road, by Georgina Paterson, features native flowers and birds like the New Holland Honey Eater and Red Tailed Cockatoo. These murals stand as a testament to Boddington's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit, reflecting the collective creativity and participation of local residents in mural surveys and workshops.
What's Next?
- Sealing of the carpark around the Town Hall
- Sealing of Peppercorn Lane
- Installation of a pocket park adjacent to the IGA
- Installation of an additional mural
- Refurbishment of the toilet block adjacent to Central Park
- Enhancement of Central Park