By Tate Papworth
A $5.47 million civic green space will be built in the “heart of Hampshire Road”.
Brimbank mayor Georgina Papafotiou said the space, which will be built between Devonshire Road and Bennett Place, will be a focal point for the community.
“Our vision for the heart of Hampshire Road is to create a much-loved area where shoppers can stay a little longer, meet friends and enjoy community events,” Cr Papafotiou said.
“The new civic green will aim to provide an inviting public space for larger cultural events and a welcoming and safe space for social gatherings.”
The new-look area will include paving footpaths, new road surfacing, extensive tree planting, a lawn area, better seating and lighting, and two new raised pedestrian crossings.
The council says Hampshire Road will remain open during construction, however some temporary closures will be required at times.
Construction on the project is set to begin in mid-February.
Cr Papafotiou said the project was part of Sunshine’s evolution and making the area more inviting.
“We want to make this an inviting and green space where our community can come together to relax, socialise and enjoy their shopping,” she said.
Work was scheduled to begin sooner, but the Sunshine Business Association, traders and the council agreed deferring the work would be best to avoid impacting on the Sunshine Lantern Festival and the busy December trading period.
When announcing the deferments, Cr John Hedditch said continuing to upgrade the suburb’s main street was of vital importance as it prepares for the major transformation which will come with the super hub.
“The ongoing progression and building of this particular street is vitally important to the presentation of Sunshine to all those investors who are going to come and consider putting their hard-earned into this particular area as we go forward with some of the major infrastructure investments.”
