GROWTH SPURT AND FACE LIFT FOR WOLLONGONG’S CBD

As part of the 2-year CBD revitalisation plans, some of the new developments include:

• The GPT Group’s $200M West Keira shopping development

• Australian Taxation Office’s new $16M purpose built office building on Kemble Street

• Council’s $19M refurbishment of the Crown Street Mall

• Wollongong’s Public Hospital’s $106M expansion

• The roll out of free Wi-Fi in the City Centre and NBN across the region

• Revitalisation of laneways including Globe Lane

• 47–51 Crown Street (former Oxford tavern site); and the Flinders Street site, which is currently being remediated and prepared for future works

• A number of large mixed use developments

Wollongong has also experienced an influx of small businesses popping up around the city – with more than 10 small bars, cafes and galleries opening in a matter of months. The Council says it is seeking to enhance the progress of active streetscapes in the city centre and is currently investigating a façade rejuvenation program for Crown Street and Globe Lane.

The Council has also announced that consent has been granted for generic outdoor dining within Crown Street Mall, Globe Lane and the Arts Precinct. The approvals will ameliorate the currently complicated process for restaurant and café owners operating outdoor dining.

Wollongong Council City Centre Revitalisation manager Mark Grimson confirms, "We're looking at how we can streamline processes in relation to things like outdoor dining and how we can encourage further businesses to look at those opportunities."

With Wollongong growing as one of Australia’s major cities and offering connectivity, a coastal lifestyle as well as functioning as an international trade hub and leading University City, the new revitalisation of the city centre aims to enhance Wollongong’s liveability as well as promote investment. Mark Grimson says “This is really about trying to capture more of those dollars staying in the region."