The existing shopping areas are highly valued by the community. There is a desire to support them into the future so that the ‘village character’ is maintained and all daily needs continue to be within easy reach.

Summary of key issues and opportunities gathered to date

Hudsons Road and Vernon Street are the main shopping areas within Spotswood and South Kingsville. The ‘Village Vibe’ and mix of smaller, independent retailers is highly valued by the community and creates a ‘local feel’. Information gathered to date suggests a need to support these traders and precincts through:

• upgrades to streetscapes, public spaces and cyclist and pedestrian connections
• funding / grant opportunities and establishing a network to support / connect traders
• managing / reducing unwanted through traffic (especially heavy vehicles) that are causing issues in terms of safety, amenity and congestion

The diverse mix of retailers and essential services in these village precincts provide most daily needs within close reach of residents. Opportunities to improve cyclist and pedestrian connections to increase accessibility to centres and establish Spotswood and South Kingsville as ‘20-minute neighbourhoods’ where all amenities are within easy cycle / walk are to be explored.

The McLister Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre is currently being developed and will provide additional shopping services to the local area. This has the potential benefit of retaining shoppers in the local area but there is also concern from established traders of the impacts to their businesses.

Scienceworks and local hospitality businesses draw visitors from outside the local area. Business and community feedback to date has suggested a desire to support, diversify and enhance these offerings through initiatives such as arts projects, events and food precincts. This would further strengthen the viability and success of the village centres and independent retailers.

Key projects and initiatives

The following projects and initiatives should be considered due to their impact on shops and services:

1. McLister St Neighbourhood Activity Centre

• The development of a new neighbourhood activity centre including a supermarket, liquor store mini-major tenancy (shop), specialty shops, medical centre, cafe and 334 dwellings.
• To view a copy of the approved plans, click here or visit https://hobsonsbay.greenlightopm.com/document/publicview/560042006C0079002F006D007300540053006F0063003D00

2. Hobsons Bay Business has Heart

• Hobsons Bay Business has Heart will promote the many local businesses operating across the municipality and support them to survive, recover and thrive.
• To find out more, visit https://www.hobsonsbaybusiness.com.au/Do-Business/Hobsons-Bay-Business-has-Heart