Mount Alexander Shire Council, Victoria, has adopted a streetscape plan and design standards for Castlemaine to guide the development of a more attractive and functional commercial centre while working with the historical features of the picturesque 19th century town.
The high-level plan and design standards will guide Council and the community in the strategic management, maintenance and improvement of the streets and public spaces in the central district of this historically and socially significant town.
Mayor, Christine Henderson, said the plan would guide improvements including safer street crossings, more street trees and enhancements to public spaces.
“The design standards provide detail for streetscape elements such as street furniture, paving materials and crossovers. They also aim to respect the historic features of the town and improve amenity and access across the town centre.”
The design principles were shaped by early feedback from community members on what they loved about the town as well as opportunities for improvement.
Council worked with a team of landscape architects, urban designers and town planners to develop the plans and designs based on the guiding principles and feedback received from several rounds of consultation.
The final plan and design standards have been developed in response to feedback and input provided by the community, councillors and a community reference group.
“The plans were revised along the way based on community aspirations for a greener, more creative and accessible town centre, and to minimise concerns about a loss of parking spaces and changes to traffic management.”
They were also revised to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities, based on an independent review of accessibility.
The plan includes short term recommendations for immediate implimentation, such as the placement of new seats and bike hoops. It also includes larger projects that can be planned and budgeted over several years such as boulevard street
tree planting.
“We look forward to seeing this plan being rolled out over time, to bring out the best in Castlemaine and the features that define the historic town as a creative and sustainable centre.”
