In November 2020, the @nswgov announced the High Street programme, allocating $15M to boost high street economic recovery, improve comfort and amenity and increase footfall.๐๐ธ
In Nowra town centre, Junction Court was identified as a focus for the daytime and weekend economy, with potential to attract more customers with children.๐ช๐๏ธ
That is why, in March 2022, $900k was earmarked for the revitalisation of Junction Street. This project was executed by the @shoalhavencitycouncil and @howgoodisyourhood. โจ
Prior to the installation, a community and stakeholder consultation was conducted to gauge the performance of the space. From this, a vision for improvement was created and benchmarks were set to track the impacts. ๐ฃ๏ธ๐๐
Then, @streetstrongaustralia created a colourful ground mural, changing the legibility and limits of the space, to turn it into a comfortable space in which to spend time.๐ง๐ถโโ๏ธ
In order to demonstrate a real investment in public space, high quality and beautiful warm timber @streetfurnitureaustraliawas used. In addition, the arc seating helped create a sense of enclosure, hosting events and helping parents feel more secure with their children, who could play with @milestone_sculptures. ๐ฏ๐ช
Tailored round frame planters, an Arqua Fountain and Monsoon Bins were also introduced.๐ฑ๐ง
After installation, cleanliness, maintenance, walkability, amenity, space for group activities and interaction, and general appearance and visual character were assessed, with a 10-30% increase in performance ๐. In addition, there was a 30-40% increase in attractiveness, which contributes to the prosperity of local trade.๐๐
