Retail Strip To Get a Facelift

One of Frankston’s most historical streets is about to get revitalised. Wells Street could soon become the hottest boutique shopping strip in the city as plans to transform the thoroughfare start to take shape.

Possibly one day mirroring that of Main Street, Mornington and Acland Street, St Kilda, the iconic street has secured a $3.4 million streetscape upgrade jointly funded by the Department of Transport and Frankston Council.

Construction for new paving, furniture, lighting and planting is anticipated to begin mid 2014. But to kick-off the transformation, the State Government has injected a $20,000 grant towards a Streetlife program that begins in the coming weeks. The council has also tipped in $4000 for the project.

Frankston Mayor Sandra Mayer said Streetlife involved retailers joining forces to help the council promote the strip and attract more customers through advertising and marketing campaigns. “The aim of the program is to re-invigorate Frankston’s city centre by encouraging residents and visitors to rediscover the great entertainment, shopping and culinary attractions that make Wells Street a must-visit destination” she said.

The street will have its own magazine-style website, which customers can access for special deals and event nights and increased advertising, such as billboards. A farmers market, with about 35 stalls selling locally grown food, will line the street every Thursday from September 19. It will run for a six-week trial and be open from 8am-2pm.

Michael Stuart, whose cafe is Poppyseeds has been part of Wells Street for 22 years, said he was looking forward to the rejuvenation. “These changes are going to be a boom for Frankston, especially coming into summer. Wells Street is the best route from the station to the beach” he said. “Its a beautiful street and it’s only going to get better”.

Source – Leader