Many of Boroondara’s strip shopping centres are set to be upgraded after Council endorsed a Shopping Centre Improvement Plan (SCIP) this week.

The SCIP assesses 41 shopping centres across the municipality that contain seven or more businesses. Shopping centres that will be covered by a structure plan (Camberwell Junction, Kew Junction, Glenferrie Road and Balwyn) were not reviewed as improvements to these centres will be undertaken separately in accordance with the structure plan recommendations.

The SCIP identifies a range of improvement opportunities that will be progressively implemented as part of an ongoing shopping centre improvement program. The program aims to balance the relative needs of each shopping centre with the anticipated benefits offered by these centres to the broader community. Improvements that will be considered include upgrading essential elements such as street trees, seats, bins, bike rails and footpaths, as well as a number of desireable additions including feature paving, additional landscaping and public art.

The Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Jack Wegman said the project presented a wonderful opportunity to improve the amenity of local shopping centres and would encourage more residents to shop locally.

“Council recognises the importance of local shopping centres to traders and residents,” Cr Wegman said.

“We must ensure improvements are made to provide the greatest benefit to the community.”

“Council will shortly seek feedback from traders and residents on how their local shopping centre can be improved.”