No. 69

IMPROVING OUR LOCAL SHOPPING CENTRES
The Stanhope Government will provide $3.250 million to improve local shopping centres as part of the 2007-08 Budget.

Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, John Hargreaves, said that the funding would be used to give a facelift to local shopping centres in Ainslie, Garran and Melba.

“The improvements will include changes to the look and safety of these local shopping centres,” said Mr Hargreaves.

“The funding includes improvements to lighting and accessibility which will increase safety in these areas.”

Mr Hargreaves said the renovations would also entail upgrades to pavements and drainage, and improved street furniture in some areas.

“Our local shopping centres are seen to be the heart of local communities. It is important that we maintain these areas to ensure that local businesses continue to want to operate out of them and that local communities want to use them to access services that they require,” he said.

“This funding will result in improvements to ensure that the vitality of these centres remains,” said Mr Hargreaves.