Drouin Commercial Place Precinct Improvements

Project typeStreetscape Upgrade
Project value$1.1 million
Project scheduleConstruction will commence in late 2025 and be completed by mid-2026
Contractor nameAccomplished Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

Drouin’s Commercial Place Precinct is set for improvement works to revitalise the area and improve safety and accessibility for all users.

Streetscape works will target Commercial Place (between Hope Street and Bank Place) and extend into the three adjoining laneways that lead to Princes Way.

The project will deliver improvements including:

Construction of two new raised pedestrian crossings
Renewal of the footpath along Commercial Place
Surface refresh for the three laneways (including Festival Lane)
New street furniture and bins
New line marking, kerb and channel
Improved public lighting
Upgrades to stormwater drainage
New trees, refreshed plantings and new garden beds
Existing trees will not be removed as part of these works.

Concept designs

Concept image of the entrance to the precinct from the west

The full draft concept plan can be downloaded here.

Project funding

The project is funded through Council's Capital Works Program and a $600,000 input from the Development Contributions Plan.

Timeline

Apr-May 2022: Community Consultation

Community consultation was held to hear feedback from local businesses and residents.

Jul-Aug 2022: Concept Design Finalised

Following the consultation period, feedback was consolidated and the concept design was finalised.

Sep 2022 – Jun 2025: Creation of detailed designs

The design contract was awarded to Group GSA and has since undergone several rounds of revisions. The detailed design has now been finalised.

Jun 2022 – Sep 2025: Procurement

Suitably qualified contractors will be sought to deliver the works.

Nov 2025 – Mid 2026: Construction

Construction is expected to commence in late-2025 with completion by mid-2026.

The project is split into three stages with shops expected to remain open during construction.

There may be some disruption to vehicle traffic during each stage.

Stage 1 - Eastern Laneway and Upper Car Park

Upper car park will be closed with access closed from Bank Place. Through vehicle traffic on Commercial Place to continue via Young Street service road. Pedestrian access available to all shops.

Stage 2 – Festival Lane and Commercial Place

Through vehicle traffic on Commercial Place will be closed. Festival Lane will be closed. Pedestrian access available to all shops.

Stage 3 – Western Laneway and Commercial Place

Through vehicle traffic on Commercial Place will be closed. Western laneway will be closed. Pedestrian access available to all shops.

*Timelines are subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Commercial Place?

This project delivers key aspects outlined by Baw Baw Shire Council’s Development Contributions Plan for townscape works within the Drouin CBD. The Commercial Place precinct will see improved safety & visibility for both pedestrians and vehicles and provide a more inviting environment to encourage greater foot traffic for businesses.

Will traffic congestion on Princes Way be addressed?

Whilst Princes Way is outside of the scope of works for this streetscape project, one of Council’s key advocacy priorities is to improve the efficiency and safety of Baw Baw Shire’s local road network More information can be found here: Drouin & Warragul Arterial Road Network Planning.

Latest news and updates

Have your say on improvements to Drouin’s Commercial Place Precinct

Contact us

Have questions? We are here to help!

For more information, please contact Council's Major Projects on 1300 229 229 or email projects@bawbawshire.vic.gov.au