Broadmeadows’ Olsen Place Shopping Centre is set for a major accessibility and amenity upgrade after Hume council endorsed plans addressing accessibility concerns at its Monday 27 October meeting.
The decision follows a motion raised by Cr Karen Sherry earlier in the year calling for a Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliance survey and a feasibility report into resurfacing the centre.
An accessibility audit carried out by Architecture and Access consultants found multiple areas of non-compliance with current standards, including uneven and steep pathways, poor drainage, non-compliant parking, and shop entries which exceeded accessibility thresholds.
Cr Ally Watson said it’s important to update the accessibility of locations like Olsen Place for its use by the wider community.
“Olsen Place isn’t just a shopping strip or a thoroughfare. It’s a meeting point and a hub for our community,” she said.
“Addressing accessibility and safety issues in our public spaces is not just important; it’s really essential for thriving and inclusive communities.”
Under the recommendation, council has endorsed a staged upgrade under its Hume’s Places program to bring the precinct in line with national accessibility requirements.
The proposed $2-2.5 million upgrade will include resurfacing and regrading of the precinct’s pathways, new ramps and drainage, a reconfigurement of parking, and new street furniture and signage.
Before major works begin, council will undertake place activation initiatives at Olsen Place to improve safety, accessibility and social connection across the shopping precinct.
