Inner west's main streets revitalisation continues
Inner West Council’s successful revitalisation of Norton Street Leichhardt is now being repeated in Rozelle and Balmain main streets.
The Darling Street Mainstreet Revitalisation Implementation Plan has achieved some significant milestones in the past six months, including a much-viewed video ‘destination story’, Christmas promotions, Shop Local campaign, development of Balmain historic pub and walking tours, and expansion of Jazz in the Park from one to two days.
The cumulative reach of these activities is more than 2.5 million people.
The video, inviting viewers to “visit & explore” was viewed 56,395 times and attracted 506 comments, mainly “a desire to visit the area”.
The Shop Local campaign increased awareness, visitation and local spend to inner west businesses. The social media reach alone for that campaign was over a million people. Almost 3,000 people entered the associated competition.
The new two-day Balmain Weekend of Jazz in November attracted over 5,000 visitors.
Council has now also rolled-out wi-fi along Darling Street.
“I’m sure all these activities – many of which have achieved impressive results - will translate into real and lasting results for the main streets of Rozelle and Balmain,” said Administrator of Inner West Council Richard Pearson.
“Just as Council was able to achieve a dramatic drop in retail vacancies along Norton Street, I’m confident that we’ll see a difference in other inner west main streets as well,” he said.
Council initiatives in Norton Street – which are on-going - saw retail vacancies plummet to a four-year low, from 23 to 10.
Council’s additional efforts in Rozelle and Balmain include providing a $5,000 grant to Balmain Markets for improving infrastructure, and engaging a consultant to advise on how to enhance the mix of businesses along Darling Street.
“And I know the new landscaped public space on the corner of Darling and Montague streets will also provide a much-needed shot in the arm for the area,” Mr Pearson said. “Plus, Council is discussing with Woolworths improving their store’s performance, given the significant flow-on benefits for other businesses.”
The front section of the Telstra Exchange is being demolished, which will create a ‘plaza’ with view of the heritage post office building.
Go to www.balmainpubtours.com.au
For a print quality image of the plan for the new public space, or a link to the Balmain and Rozelle video showcase, contact the Communication team.