Team in place to lift precinct

Horsham mayor Pam Clarke has welcomed a ‘vibrant’ action group tasked with revitalising the city’s central business district.

Through community consultation, the council has identified several projects and priorities designed to enhance the municipality and-or create opportunities for residents.

At a meeting last week, the council endorsed an action group to lead the revitalisation.

The group comprises Mark Hancock, Cr Les Power, Di Bell, Wendy Mitchell, John Latimer, Melissa Gross and Jodie Cooper.

Justine Severin, Bernie Clifford, Andrea Cross and John Latimer have put up their hands to help with specific projects.

“It is a terrific group of people who are passionate about our CBD and have a lot of ideas,” Cr Clarke said.

“I look forward to seeing what they achieve.”

Cr Clarke said she was thrilled with the results of community consultation and the types of projects identified.

“I’m really excited about some of the ideas that have been presented,” she said.

“There are some ‘quick fixes’ identified that are not going to cost a whole lot of money.

“We also have some medium to longterm goals, which will require seeking government funding.”

Quick fixes include feature lighting of shops and trees; boosting vibrancy and colour, such as street banners, plantings and event marketing; regular events and markets; activating vacant shops; an outdoor cinema; and a pop-up café on the river.

Medium-term projects include improved directional signs; identity and branding; town entrance upgrades; and a marketing campaign, while long-term goals include a town square, river facilities and street improvements.

The council will also look to create a streetscape development scheme, through the action group, which will include a partnership between the council and businesses.