Moreton Bay Regional Council will spruce up Margate

LOBBYING from local business owners has paid off with a southeast Queensland council agreeing to freshen up one of the region’s tired business districts.

A possible design for an entrance sign into Margate.

LOBBYING from local business owners has paid off with Moreton Bay Regional Council agreeing to freshen up Margate’s business centre.

Councillor Koliana Winchester (Div 6) spoke about the plans at a Chamber of Commerce and Industry Redcliffe Peninsula (CIRP) meeting.

CIRP president Nick Tzimas said it was the most well attended meeting of the past few years.

“We are partnering with Margate businesses and the Moreton Bay Regional Council to develop placemaking initiatives to enhance Margate as a local destination,” Mr Tzimas said.

The upgrade will incorporate Oxley Ave, Baynes St and other side streets.

Concepts being discussed include welcome signage, street furniture and urban art.

“Times are changing and we need to change too,” Mr Tzimas said.

The business district’s streetscape was last upgraded in 2007.

A concept design of what the entrance to the Margate Shopping District could look like.

Mr Tzimas said it would be great to have more lights in the trees, the business shop fronts freshened up and more colourful flowers planted.

“This is about looking at Margate with fresh eyes and building new strengths as a local business community,” he said.

“Hopefully this will bring new businesses in to the area.”

The council would not confirm how much money had been set aside for the project.

Cr Winchester said she wanted to see Margate thrive and the empty shop fronts filled.

“Council is proposing fresh new signage to create a more distinctive local brand in the centre and build Margate’s profile as a shopping destination,” Cr Winchester said.

A concept plan, looking at Baynes St from Oxley Ave Margate.

The council had identified some potential projects and is seeking public feedback on its plans as well as new ideas.

“This project is about having a partnership to plan a unified vision,” Cr Winchester said.

“The initial concepts bring together vibrant urban initiatives which enhance the style and character of the area.”

Public consultation sessions will be held at shop 1/32 Baynes St, Margate, from 12.30-4.30pm on November 14 and 9am-1pm on November 17.

Mr Tzimas and Cr Winchester encouraged the community and business owners to have their say during the consultation period.