PLANS are underway to transform the laneway between Curlewis and Campbell streets into a walk-through gallery featuring art displays from local artists.
The initiative, a partnership between the state government, Swan Hill Inc and council, will incorporate exchangeable open-air public art displays, walls and walkway makeover, bright LED lighting and functionality and safety improvements.
The Campbell Street laneway — which provides a direct link to both Curlewis Street and McCallum Street — will also be a major connection to the proposed Swan Hill riverfront precinct redevelopment.
Council’s director development and planning, Adam McSwain, said the laneway project stemmed from council’s relationship with Swan Hill police and Swan Hill Inc, which scoped a range of ideas and projects to enhance the CBD’s appearance and safety.
“While laneways have been traditionally seen as serving functional purposes such as vehicle access and storage, the success of other laneway revitalisation programs illustrates that appropriately developed laneways can provide social and economic benefits to the region,” Mr McSwain said.
“These benefits, combined with improving public safety, have been key factors in driving the laneway initiative and council is thankful to have received $25,000 from the state government’s Public Safety Infrastructure Fund to implement this project.”
The project will incorporate public art displays from local artists and provide extra options for events and street festivals, such as by incorporating place-making ideas like ‘pop up parks’.
A public consultation process, scheduled for early 2016, will take place before plans are finalised.
“These designs will include plans for the external steel framework for the public art, mock up public art displays, lighting and surface treatment,” Mr McSwain added.
“We will also have a ‘name the lane’ competition and of course, a lane celebration when the project is completed.
“It’s all part of making Swan Hill a fun, safe and prosperous place to live, shop and play.”
