Excitedly looking over plans for the $1 million revamp of Moree’s CBD area, Moree Plains Shire Councillors John Tramby OAM, left, Kerry Cassells, Economic and Community Development Manager Mark Connolly, Moree Chamber of Commerce President Dibs Cush, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Councillor Stephen Ritchie.
Wednesday, 5 May 2021
A PROJECT to make Moree’s central business district (CBD) a more comfortable and welcoming location for shoppers during summer has received ‘a cool’ $999,000 investment from the State Government, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing the major funding injection to support Moree Plains Shire Council’s modernisation of Balo Street.
Mr Marshall said funding would allow council to transform the look, and more importantly feel, of the Balo Street CBD area.
“While Moree has one of the most vibrant main streets in our region, during the height of summer there is often few pedestrians due to the scorching temperatures,” Mr Marshall said.
“This project aims to get people out and about with council taking a multi-pronged approach to making Balo Street a safe space for shoppers and business operators.
“Starting with efforts to reduce the heat, parking shade structures will be installed in front of the Max Centre and Moree War Memorial Hall, while misting archways will be included on both sides of the street.
“Council is also proposing additional shade trees on Albert, Frome and Heber Streets, while new garden islands with trees will be installed up the centre of sections of Balo Street and Heber Street.
“Pedestrian access will be enhanced on Balo Street with both crossings covered by shade structures, and traffic calming devices, between the Albert and Heber Street intersections.
“Upgraded lighting in sections of the CBD will act as a deterrent for anti-social behaviour.
“Finally, a commemorative water feature will be installed opposite the Moree War Memorial Hall, to pay homage to those who served.
“These improvements will make Balo Street a showpiece and encourage more people to stop, stay and engage with local businesses and the community.”
Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries said she was delighted to be able to progress the Moree Main Street project with grant funding from the NSW Government Your High Streets program.
“The upgrade of shade is so important for the beautification of the CBD precinct and the extension of arches and grapes vines will enhance the entire street, while celebrating the art-deco style Moree so richly embraces,” Cr Humphries said.
“Through a survey launched in January, council sought to engage with the business community and general public on the types of changes they would like to see made.
“Pleasingly there was more than 80 submissions to that survey, which has helped inform council’s designs. I thank all those who took the time to put their ideas forward.
“The overall aim of the project is to encourage people to come to our streets to work, live and visit.”