A project to revitalise a large vacant block in the heart of Gosnells has provided a colourful, attractive space for pop-up events and activities, public art, seating, and paths to encourage active travel.
City of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes said the temporary transformation will attract more people into the town centre, after plans to redevelop the site were postponed due to market conditions.
The project was delivered in partnership with RAC through its Reconnect WA initiative, which aims to create vibrant streets and public spaces for Western Australians to interact and connect with each other.
“This practical and attractive space was designed to encourage community members to spend more time in the Gosnells Town Centre, connect with others, support local businesses and use more active transport,” Mayor Lynes said.
“It also provides a safer and more attractive pathway between the town centre and the train station, to welcome visitors.
“The city has been working to revitalise the Gosnells Town Centre for many years and this temporary development will demonstrate the community’s support for revitalisation to landowners in the area and private investors.”
RAC Acting Group Executive Social and Community Impact Will Golsby said the Reconnect WA initiative provided local governments across Western Australia with funding to deliver community-based projects which change the look and feel of streets and public spaces.
“Through our Reconnect WA initiative, RAC is thrilled to have supported this project, which has transformed vacant land with bright and colourful active travel paths, places to sit and rest, lighting, landscaping and artworks,” he said.
“Projects like this are so important to building connected communities, inspiring positive change and making Western Australia an even better place to live.”
Buildings formerly on the site were demolished in August 2021 as part of a plan to redevelop the space as a mixed-use development. This project is on hold due to the current market, allowing temporary revitalisation while the city waits for market conditions to improve.
