KERANG’S main shopping thoroughfare re-opened to traffic yesterday morning.
The centre of the Victoria Street block between Wellington and Scoresby Streets has been closed while new pavement works were completed.
The central business district is currently undergoing a facelift with a $500,000 grant from the Victorian Government and a $250,000 contribution from Gannawarra Shire Council.
Shire infrastructure and development director, Geoff Rollinson said that that footpath concreting had commenced last week and over the weekend the concrete foundations in front of shops on the western side were completed.
“Victoria Street has now reopened to vehicle traffic and the parking reinstated” he said.
“Barriers are currently installed and are placed along both sides of the roadway to allow for traffic to move through the site safely. They will remain in place until the garden bed retaining walls are placed and paving adjacent to the road is completed.
“By returning to two-way traffic right away, we are able to remove both turning circles and thus the majority of car parks will be reinstated.”
Mr Rollinson said that there may be some days over the coming weeks where council will need to close a few car parks for construction access or deliveries, but this will be minimal. Most of the large temporary fencing around the work site will soon be removed and open up the views of the street.”
Gannawarra mayor, Cr Brian Gibson said that the Kerang CBD upgrade provided a unique and exciting opportunity.
“Not only are we able to improve the aesthetic appeal of Victoria Street and Victoria Square but also enhance the functionality of this key area for the community,” he said.
“The upgrade will improve pedestrian safety, activate the space and encourage both local residents and tourists to engage with the area and potentially spend more time in the Kerang CBD.”
