Tom Ingleton
South Morang’s Gorge Road shopping precinct has turned from what was a tired strop to a thriving destination after undergoing a $1.2 million transformation, and locals are loving the results.
Funded by Whittlesea council with a $425,000 boost from the Victorian government’s growing suburbs fund, the revitalised centre boasts an expanded outdoor dining area, lush new greenery and upgraded safety and access features.
Gone are the cramped angled parks, now replaced with parallel parking, new street lighting and a raised pedestrian crossing have improved both usability and safety.
Visitors will also notice thoughtful touches like additional seating, bins, bike racks, and newly planted trees irrigated by street water run-off– a nod to sustainability.
The makeover has already won over locals.
To mark the completion of the project, a community celebration will take place on Sunday, May 18 from 11am-1pm.
The first 100 visitors will receive free hot drink vouchers, while kids can get their faces painted and snap a photo with Sonic the Hedgehog.
Whittlesea mayor Martin Taylor said the project has brought fresh energy to the local hub.
“The $1.2 million revitalisation of the Gorge Road shopping precinct in South Morang has transformed an outdated and underutilised space into a vibrant, modern, and welcoming destination for our community,” he said.
“This significant investment has breathed new life into the area, creating an inviting environment that will support local businesses and attract more visitors to the precinct.”
Work will soon begin at the rear of the shops, with a Reid Street car park extension, lighting upgrades and tree planting.
