8.11 Courthouse Plaza Streetscape Renewal - Consultation results and the way forward Author: Matthew Hutchinson- Design and Traffic Coordinator Presenter: Brett Luxford- Acting General Manager Planning and Development Purpose of Report To detail the results of the public consultation and propose a way forward for the detailed design for future improvements to the Courthouse Plaza, Melton. Recommendation: 1. That Council undertake further consultation in relation to the Courthouse Plaza and McKenzie Street precinct, particularly utilizing the upcoming opening of the library. 2. That as part of the consultation options be provided for the Courthouse as a result of the feedback received to date. 3. That a further report be provided to Council on the issue following the consultation process. 4. That Council consider allocating $50,000 in the 2013/2014 budget to undertake immediate improvements to pedestrian access to the Plaza and library, and to undertake a range of place making activities at the Plaza. Report 1. Executive Summary In 2012 Council established a Community Reference Group to lead the development of a master plan for improvements to the Courthouse Plaza in Melton. In December 2012 Council resolved to publically exhibit the draft plan. Fourteen submissions have been received. The feedback has indicated support for Council’s streetscape improvement works generally and for Council’s intention to improve the Plaza. However, it is also clear that there is mixed views as to how the Plaza should be used in an activation sense, and therefore what actual physical changes and improvements should occur. The issue of linkages to the new library have also been identified, as has the need to establish a clear vision and consistent approach to dealing with this overall precinct. It is recommended that Council undertake further consultation, utilising the forthcoming opening of the new library as a major opportunity for input. In the meantime there are more immediate improvements Council can make to improve pedestrian access to the Plaza and library, along with the opportunity to activate the Plaza with various place making activities. 2. Background/Issues The Melton Courthouse precinct is the area fronting Palmerston Street and High Street next to IGA (see Appendix 1). The precinct currently contains a sound shell, taxi rank, three stores, car parking and the clock tower.
8.11 Courthouse Plaza Streetscape Renewal - Consultation results and the way forward Author: Matthew Hutchinson- Design and Traffic Coordinator Presenter: Brett Luxford- Acting General Manager Planning and Development Purpose of Report To detail the results of the public consultation and propose a way forward for the detailed design for future improvements to the Courthouse Plaza, Melton. Recommendation: 1. That Council undertake further consultation in relation to the Courthouse Plaza and McKenzie Street precinct, particularly utilizing the upcoming opening of the library. 2. That as part of the consultation options be provided for the Courthouse as a result of the feedback received to date. 3. That a further report be provided to Council on the issue following the consultation process. 4. That Council consider allocating $50,000 in the 2013/2014 budget to undertake immediate improvements to pedestrian access to the Plaza and library, and to undertake a range of place making activities at the Plaza. Report 1. Executive Summary In 2012 Council established a Community Reference Group to lead the development of a master plan for improvements to the Courthouse Plaza in Melton. In December 2012 Council resolved to publically exhibit the draft plan. Fourteen submissions have been received. The feedback has indicated support for Council’s streetscape improvement works generally and for Council’s intention to improve the Plaza. However, it is also clear that there is mixed views as to how the Plaza should be used in an activation sense, and therefore what actual physical changes and improvements should occur. The issue of linkages to the new library have also been identified, as has the need to establish a clear vision and consistent approach to dealing with this overall precinct. It is recommended that Council undertake further consultation, utilising the forthcoming opening of the new library as a major opportunity for input. In the meantime there are more immediate improvements Council can make to improve pedestrian access to the Plaza and library, along with the opportunity to activate the Plaza with various place making activities. 2. Background/Issues The Melton Courthouse precinct is the area fronting Palmerston Street and High Street next to IGA (see Appendix 1). The precinct currently contains a sound shell, taxi rank, three stores, car parking and the clock tower.
ordinary_council_meeting_agenda_-_4_march_2013_exc_foi.docx