The funds were allocated from the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council 2017/2018 Operational Plan and will be the first stage of upgrade works. 

Council director Alex Fisher said the work is a result of significant input from the local community into what they would like to see in the area.

“We’ve been listening to the Kew community, and their input and ideas have assisted us in delivering this initial stage of works program to improve safety and access, while maintaining the village feel and natural character of the area,” she said. 

“Kew is a thriving village and a key entry point to our region, so balancing local needs while providing a great first impression for visitors is extremely important.”

The initial upgrades will focus on a number of safety and streetscape improvements including the installation of new kerbing, planting of gardens, improvements to existing pedestrian refuges and the extension of central medians.

Ms Fisher said design work for further improvements to the Kew main street would continue into the 2018/19 financial year, with a view to fund delivery of the next stage of works to be undertaken in 2019/20.

“The local community have identified a number of future upgrades to focus on as part of the plan,” she said.  

“These include modifications to the roundabout to enhance safety and a reconfiguration of the car park adjacent to the Kew Corner Store.”

The plan will also be used to prioritise future works and assist with applications for funding from other levels of government.

“Council looks forward to delivering these initial improvements over the coming weeks and encourages the local community to continue to work with us in delivering on the vision for one of our region’s most iconic villages,” said Ms Fisher.

For more information on the Kew Main Street Master Plan or the upcoming works visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/kew-main-street or call council on 6581 8111.