Safety and art unite as streetscape project transforms High Street

04 Mar 2024 |
4 March 2024

Important road safety upgrades, bespoke beautification works and vital underground water infrastructure improvements are scheduled to commence on High Street, Stanthorpe in the first week of March as part of the next exciting phase of the Stanthorpe Streetscape Project.

Led by community vision and consultation, the works to install a new raised pedestrian crossing, disabled parking, functional art and mature trees will enhance the amenity and liveability of the Stanthorpe CBD to support local business, improve pedestrian access and beautify the area.

Southern Downs Regional Council’s Chief Executive Officer Dave Burges said crews will work to minimise impacts and disruptions as much as possible during construction, and deliver a practical and welcoming town-centre for locals and visitors to enjoy.

“Each stage of the streetscape project has been a labour of love designed to improve the CBD and reflect Stanthorpe’s rich artistic and cultural history,” Mr Burges said.

“This next stage of the project will underpin the unique character of the town and transform High Street into a vibrant alfresco precinct by installing outdoor seating shaded by mature trees, providing safer pedestrian access to the main street, and emboldening the art and heritage interpretations to keep the town’s history alive.

“Importantly, works will include safer pedestrian and accessibility improvements, giving residents better access to the medical clinics with new disability parking.

“The informal crossing is being temporarily removed to provide additional car parking spaces, and Council is working with the Department of Transport and Main Roads to explore the viability of re-instating the informal crossing in a new location.

“To make space for the precinct and construct the new pedestrian crossing, seven existing parking spaces need to be removed, and Council continues to investigate options to create additional parking on and off-street.

“Council has also collaborated with the next generation of young, passionate artisans to craft functional art that pays tribute to Stanthorpe’s diverse culture, rich heritage and charming character.”

Year 9 and 10 art students from Stanthorpe State High School worked with local artist Maggie Brockie to curate 16 linear metres of handmade granite and tile mosaics incorporating 36 different designs inspired by The Stanthorpe Nine, a group of highly endangered floral species endemic to the Granite Belt.

In addition to the new outdoor gallery, students from Stanthorpe State High School and St Joseph’s School designed and fabricated steel-framed bench seats, cladded with locally sourced and milled ironbark.

Works are scheduled to be completed by the end of June 2024.

This latest round of improvements are in addition to previous enhancements which have included improving the character and vibrancy of Fromes Lane and creating Doug Smith Carpark on Rogers Street to increase the CBD’s parking capacity.

Visit https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/roads-infrastructure/current-and-future-road-works for more information.

This project is being funded with the support of the Australian Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program in association with Council.

Last edited date 28 Mar 2024