Gorge-ous glow-up for shopping precinct
Published on 07 May 2025
A $1.2 million makeover has transformed the popular Gorge Road shopping precinct in South Morang.
The extensive upgrades will help attract more people to the centre to shop and socialise in the relaxing surrounds.
The project delivered an expanded outdoor dining area with seating, tables, bins and bike racks, making the precinct a more attractive place to spend time.
A shift from angled to parallel parking at the front of the shops, as well as installation of a raised pedestrian crossing and new streetlights, has improved access and safety at the site.
The project also had a strong focus on environmental sustainability, with the planting of new trees to provide shade and street water run-off used for irrigation.
A family-friendly event to celebrate the completion of the streetscape upgrade will be held at the Gorge Road shops on Sunday 18 May 2025.
Father and son Dominic and Bradley visited the strip recently for a bite to eat and said it was vastly improved after the upgrades.
“It’s excellent,” Dominic said. “It used to be dilapidated but now it’s more relaxing, more spacious and the surroundings are nice. It’s definitely going to be a more attractive place for people to come.”
The Gorge Road shopping precinct streetscape upgrade was funded by the City of Whittlesea with the support of a $425,000 grant from the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund.
Attention will soon turn to the rear of the shops where in the coming months Council will extend the Reid Street car park, install new lights and plant more trees.
At the conclusion of the project, it is expected there will be 85 car spaces to complement those at the front of the shops.
The Reid Street playground is also set to be renewed after the car park upgrade is completed.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Martin Taylor:
“The $1.2 million revitalisation of the George Road shopping precinct in South Morang has transformed an outdated and underutilised space into a vibrant, modern, and welcoming destination for our community. This significant investment has breathed new life into the area, creating an inviting environment that will support local businesses and attract more visitors to the precinct. I warmly encourage everyone to attend the official opening event on Sunday 18 May 2025, and show your support for the dedicated local traders who make this precinct so unique. I would also like to thank the Victorian Government for its partnership and contribution to this important project through a $425,000 grant from the Growing Suburbs Fund. This collaboration demonstrates what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support local communities and foster economic growth.”
Celebration of Gorge Road streetscape upgrade
Where: Gorge Road shopping precinct, South Morang
When: 11am to 1pm on Sunday 18 May 2025
Featuring: First 100 people will get a free hot drink voucher. Children can enjoy free face painting and photos with cartoon character Sonic the Hedgehog.