A New Chapter of Retail and Connectivity

The highly anticipated redevelopment of Bridge Mall has kicked off as 2Construct, initiates stage one of the project for both the Bridge Mall and Grenville Street sections of the ambitious Bakery Hill Redevelopment. The project, fully funded by the City of Ballarat, is expected to span 12 months, breathing new life into the historic retail precinct.

The first stage of the Bridge Mall section will focus on the Peel Street end, with demolition works to remove the main canopy, street furniture, and pavers. To minimise disruptions, the redevelopment will proceed in four stages, gradually moving westward towards Grenville Street. Simultaneously, works will commence on Grenville Street in three stages, with the south-bound lane temporarily closed to traffic. However, shoppers will still have access to businesses and nearby parking throughout the construction period, with temporary pedestrian pathways and fencing installed to ensure safe navigation around the works.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson, expressed excitement over the long-awaited Bridge Mall redevelopment, emphasising the commitment to creating a better Ballarat. The revitalisation project includes a landscaped entry into the mall, a shared streetscape with one-way, low-speed vehicle access, and an innovative play space. Moreover, the redevelopment will incorporate a portal connecting to the culturally significant Yarrowee River, smart street lighting and projections, improved accessibility for all, and limited parking.

2Construct Director Peter Rahilly conveyed enthusiasm for being appointed as the head contractor for the Bakery Hill redevelopment project, confident in our ability to transform the Bakery Hill precinct into a cutting-edge retail destination. The Bridge Mall Business Association (BMBA) President Wendy McLachlan praised the City of Ballarat's thorough planning, acknowledging the positive impact the redevelopment will have on attracting new investments and retailers to the area.

The project's design, created by landscape architects Hassell, emerged after extensive community and stakeholder consultations, including the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation. Cultural elements will be embedded in the pavement, reflecting the Wadawurrung People's gathering symbol and a connection to the Yarrowee River. The design aims to honor the name 'Ballaarat,' encouraging people to slow down, gather, and connect with one another.

The Bridge Mall redevelopment aligns with the City of Ballarat's Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan, which seeks to revitalize the Ballarat CBD into a vibrant destination for shoppers, diners, residents, and visitors. The City of Ballarat is committed to preserving the historical named pavers, relocating them to greet visitors at the entrance of the Bridge Mall as the Sturt Street gardens extend into Grenville Street.

With 2Construct at the helm, the Bakery Hill Redevelopment is set to bring a fresh wave of energy and vitality to the heart of Ballarat, paving the way for a dynamic retail and community space that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Keep up-to-date with the latest works at ballarat.vic.gov.au/bridge-mall and connect with Bridge Mall businesses via shopthebridge.com.au