Town Centre Action Plan
| Introduction | Prosperity | People | Community | Moving | Environment | Summary |

To create a liveable centre which is a ‘place for people’, Matraville needs to continue to provide lifestyle, social and recreational opportunities. To create a liveable centre, land use types need to be diverse and to generate demand over long parts of the day so that the centre is busy, safe and inviting. For example, this may be achieved by accommodating early opening businesses such as cafes, later opening businesses such as restaurants, and weekend activities such as sports related uses. In this respect, Heffron Park and Chifley Sports Reserve are key assets.

Matraville has the opportunity to accommodate further high quality developments. These are important to enhance the attractiveness of centres, but cannot attract people on their own.

Investment in the private domain of the centre is a driver of greater public investment (and efficient, effective use of public funds).

Enhance the centre and public domain

Matraville centre is perceived as old, tired and unattractive. This is due in part to some shop fronts which appear run-down and to poor lighting. The poor image of Matraville negatively impacts on public perception of the centre in relation to safety and security.

2.1.1 Implement planned public domain improvements

Council have planned upgrade works within the centre. These upgrades may in turn prompt shop owners to upgrade their own shopfronts and facades.

Time frame: Short, medium and long
Lead: Randwick Council
Partners: None
Resource Requirements: Significant

2.1.2 Implement plans of management for Heffron Park and Chifley Sports Reserve

Council have prepared plans of management for these open space assets. These plans of management will be implemented to ensure the parks accommodate a range of public sporting facilities and general recreational needs, while enhancing the natural, social and cultural values of the parks.

Time frame: Short, medium and long
Lead: Randwick Council
Partners: None
Resource Requirements: Significant

2.1.3 Consider a ‘theme’ for Matraville

Council and the Chamber of Commerce should investigate the potential creation of a ‘theme’ for Matraville. This theme is designed to encourage existing and new businesses to upgrade their shop facades, and to give Matraville a better sense of identity. Any required works for upgrades to shop fronts could be collectively negotiated with tradespeople by the Chamber of Commerce.

Time frame: Short to medium
Lead: Chamber of Commerce
Partners: Randwick Council
Resource requirements: Moderate

2.1.4 Explore options to implement a Business Improvement District with business owners

Council should facilitate a meeting with business owners to discuss the possibility of implementing a Business Improvement District, with improvement works to be funded by a Matraville Economic Development Levy. A small contribution would be required from business owners which would provide a funding for centre improvements or other initiatives such as marketing for the Business Improvement District.

Time frame: Medium
Lead: Randwick Council
Partners: None
Resource Requirements: Modest

2.1.5 Improve promotion of events through the local newspaper, Council’s website or better on-street signage

Improved promotion of events within Matraville could be carried out through the local newspaper, Council’s website or better on-street signage. Opportunities exist to promote future events which may occur at either Heffron Park or Chifley Sports Reserve. Further entertainment opportunities may be investigated by Council.

Time frame: Short
Lead: Randwick Council
Partners: Chamber of Commerce and Precinct Committee
Resource Requirements: Modest

Create a sense of arrival to Matraville

There is no clearly marked gateway into Matraville, at the southern end of Bunnerong Road. The northern end of the centre is marked by flag poles. The creation or re-inforcement of a gateway would help establish a landmark by which visitors could recognize Matraville by.

2.2.1 Emphasise Gateways along Bunnerong Road into Matraville through signage or repeating flag poles at the southern end of the centre

The embellishment of an entrance point into the centre would provide a more welcoming entry to the main street. A gateway into the centre also provides an opportunity for the promotion of the centre and its unique activities/services.

Council should discuss the potential for a joint project enhancing the landscaped median strips with the RTA. This could be funded through the Economic Development Levy. Alternatively, business representatives have suggested signage stating ‘Welcome to the Eastern Suburbs’ at the southern end of the centre.

Time frame: Medium
Lead: Randwick Council
Partners: Roads and Traffic Authority
Resource Requirements: Moderate