Artful shopping strip

Local artist Abbey Rich painted the new artwork. Picture: Gary Sissons 374160_06

A new shopping strip along Hotham Street in Cranbourne has been officially unveiled on Wednesday 22 November.

It has been renovated with lively street art and landscape additions to improve its connection to community and local business.

Earlier this year, Casey Council engaged business groups and community members to understand the works required to encourage greater foot traffic and increase the potential for future economic activity along the shopping strip.

The revival project saw sections of Hotham Street between Loch Street and Latrobe Street undergo streetscape design upgrades including public art installation, landscaping and additional shaded seating for socialising.

In conjunction with Council, local artist Abbey Rich was appointed to design the space, drawing inspiration from the rich and vibrant aesthetics of South Asian culture.

“The warm and bright colour palette chosen for the pavement artworks and the furniture is designed to appeal to the whole community but particularly kids,” Abbey said.

“We are hoping that this creates a fun and safe space for everyone to gather and enjoy.”

Casey’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the vibrant street art had added an eye-catching burst of colour in the heart of one of Cranbourne’s active shopping strips.

“Not only have these works transformed the entire look, feel and functionality of the shopping strip, they have most importantly created greater access for pedestrians and unlocked the potential for future economic benefits,” Ms Duff said.

“We are pleased to have worked alongside the State Government to deliver this exciting project and look forward to seeing how our community utilises the vibrant space as we come into the warmer months.”

The $180,000 upgrade project was supported with an equal investment of $90,000 each from the City of Casey and the Victorian Government through the Living Local Suburban Grants Program.