$1.1 million upgrade of the Lyons shops

The significant revamp to the Lyons shops featuring new lighting, footpaths, landscaping and improved access, was today officially opened by Chief Minister  Jon Stanhope.

The $1.1 million upgrade of the Lyons shops has revitalised the area, providing locals and traders with a safer, more accessible and more attractive centre.

The ACT Government developed this project in close consultation with the community and businesses and many of their suggestions were included in the final design, such as improvements to safety, access, parking arrangements and public seating.

Upgrades to the centre include:

• new street furniture including seats, a drinking fountain, picnic settings and shade structures, bike racks, bins and a community noticeboard;

• significant improvements to pedestrian access in and around the shops;

• improvements to car park safety and an extra car space for people with disabilities;

• new lighting to enhance security;

• landscaping works;

• a new footpath connecting the shops to the bus stop, new kerb ramps and wider paving adjacent to shop fronts;

• seating wall and community gathering space; and

• improved recognition and visibility to the shop fronts from Davenport Street.

A further $120,000 piece of artwork depicting a figurative sculpture that has been designed for the shops is now being fabricated and is expected to be installed in November 2011.

Mr Stanhope said the work was part of the Government's ongoing investment in improving the amenity of shopping centres across the ACT.

In the last two years, the Government has completed upgrades to shopping centres at Garran, Deakin and Ainslie.

The Government will continue to deliver improvements to our public amenities and community places to ensure Canberrans continue to enjoy the best lifestyle in the country.