Lower parking fees, more trees, and a life-sized statue of Mahatma Gandhi proposed
The Indian Cultural Precinct Framework has set a strategic direction for the partnership between the Victorian Government, Multicultural Affairs and Social Cohesion Division, Development Victoria and City of Greater Dandenong to deliver the shared vision over the short, medium and long term.
The Framework captures community aspirations and will assist in guiding development of the Indian offer in Dandenong. It includes a shared vision for Melbourne’s Premier Indian Precinct and identifies 140 initiatives categorised under the six Precinct objectives including curation, trade experience, marketing, and organising festivals and events.
Also, following a recent review in the Indian Cultural Precinct, a new lower fee of $1 per hour (from the current $1.80) will become effective in May. This aims to make on street parking more convenient for shoppers and visitors. In addition there has been a review of parking layouts in Foster and Mason Streets. Line marking will be adjusted shortly to create a small number of extra on-street parking spaces.
The Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria (FIAV) has proposed a life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi opposite the Dandenong railway station with a series of plaques fixed on the statue’s pedestal describing Gandhi’s life and philosophy. Council is keen to understand community views on this matter and has created an online survey which is closes on 7 June (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GandhiSurvey).
New artworks on key sites have brought a much needed injection of colour and vibrancy to the precinct. Street art emerged as a highly popular idea through the development of the framework. It was overwhelmingly considered as a positive way to match the feelings and experiences you have inside the shops on the street.
The three artworks (one which is still underway) speak to old and new audiences alike creating great photo opportunities for sharing and promoting the precinct.
More green cover
There are more than 900 street trees throughout central Dandenong adding much loved greenery and amenity for pedestrians. In Foster Street however there has long been a gradual loss of trees resulting in most of the trees missing from the south side of the street.
Trees, greenery and landscaping were prominent themes through the development of the Framework. It was considered an important part of making the street feel family friendly, welcoming and comfortable.
Therefore 15 new street trees will be planted between Thomas Street the station. While the trees are small and still establishing they will be protected and supported by a metal tree barrier.
Existing street trees on the northern side of the street will be retained, but their bases at the footpath will be altered to eliminate tripping hazards and improve root access to rain water.
The tree planting work will take place on Sunday, 17 and 24 June and Sunday, 1 and 8 July.
The Indian Cultural Precinct Framework is available on Council’s website http://www.greaterdandenong.com/document/6332/little-india-cultural-precinct. Head website www.greaterdandenong.com or speak with Council’s Place Manager Jenny Pemberton-Webb 8571 1411 jpembe@cgd.vic.gov.au for further information on the precinct and regular updates
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