Sanger Street Youth project receives Shared Spaces funding

Published on 26 August 2020

Member for Albury Justin Clancy has announced that Corowa’s Sanger Street will be transformed into a vibrant public space with lighting, street furniture, Wi-Fi, art, outdoor dining tables and a performance area, thanks to $80,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces program.

Federation Council’s Sanger Street Plaza project is one of 48 successful proposals.

Federation Youth Council Mayor Maxim Blockley said the redesigning of the Memorial Plaza is a project that the Youth Council have been wishing to undertake for some time.

"We believe that by making this an inclusive youth space it will be beneficial for not only the youth of Federation Council but for the whole community," he said.

"We are already planning a multitude of different events and other activities for this area - it is really exciting."

Federation Council Mayor Pat Bourke said Council is thankful for the continuous support from the NSW Government in respect to the many infrastructure projects occurring right across the council area.

"I would like to take this opportunity to formally thank the NSW Government for this latest funding which will result in a fantastic new space for our youth and the community to actively come together and utilise for socialising and events," he said.

"This funding opportunity is an important milestone for the Federation Youth Council who have been identifying many projects such as this for the benefit of our youth. Council looks forward to supporting our Youth Council to bring their great vision to life."

Mr Clancy said the funding will help temporarily transform the area, providing more public space for the community to relax, exercise and enjoy.

“The Streets as Shared Spaces program is part of the NSW Government’s efforts to encourage new and improved pedestrian and active transport links that facilitate social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Clancy said.

“Not only will these projects improve how we use our public spaces, they will create employment opportunities and make our streets more attractive and welcoming for people.”

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said there had been overwhelming interest in the program, with more than 145 applications from 99 councils.

“Whether it is new cycle lanes, pedestrian-only streets or wider footpaths, we’re working with councils and communities to fund projects that can make life better for everyone – both now and into the future,” Mr Stokes said.

“The successful projects demonstrate how innovative thinking can transform under-utilised space into accessible public spaces for our communities to enjoy.”

The Streets as Shared Spaces program aims to support physical distancing requirements during COVID-19, promote the health of local economies and furthers the NSW Government’s Premier’s Priority to create greener public spaces. Councils will need to obtain all of the relevant approvals and engage with their community in delivering the projects.