The Shire of Augusta Margaret River will launch a joint marketing campaign to support traders through the construction of the Main Street redevelopment project, set to begin in February 2020.
The Main Street Makeover campaign has been developed in close consultation with a group of Main Street traders and the Margaret River Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MRCCI).
Shire Chief Executive Stephanie Addison-Brown said the campaign's aims were to help keep the Main Street vibrant during the upgrade and inform locals, visitors and shoppers about the exciting changes in store.
"This campaign is a fun and positive way to build a buzz around the Main Street and draw people in," explains Ms Addison-Brown.
"We've already seen a number of businesses coming up with some brilliant initiatives which they plan to do next year.
"There are a number of exciting features our community can look forward to seeing as part of the upgrade.
"In addition to critical stormwater drainage upgrades, the Main Street will have a designated cycle lane and a new Festival Precinct on Fearn Avenue - providing our town with an alfresco event space that can be temporarily closed off to traffic," Ms Addison-Brown said.
MRCCI President and Main Street trader Melissa D'Ath said the Main Street Makeover campaign complemented broader initiatives to support local business.
"The Shire has been working closely with us and is taking a proactive approach to support the business community in the lead up to works kicking off.
"The Main Street Makeover campaign gives us a marketing umbrella to unite under, and collectively come up with ideas to keep people coming into town.
"Some examples we've heard are Hard Hat Happy Hours as part of the Main Street Makeover, or a Main Street Makeover Shop Rewards Program, with prizes up for grabs once you collect enough stamps from participating stores," she said.
Ms D'Ath said the MRCCI was encouraging all businesses to get on board.
"We think the cumulative effect of joining in and supporting this initiative, combined with other events coming to the CBD next year like the South West Street Festival and Emergence Creative Festival will help even out potential impact to trade due to works going on," she said.
The campaign will be supported with a range of marketing materials including information boards detailing features of the upgrade, parking maps for accommodation providers, temporary parking signage to direct people to peripheral parking spots, staging plan information and additional communications to help smooth any potential disruption.
For up to date information about the project visit www.mainstreetmakeover.com.au
The community is also invited to join the next 'Meet with Pete' session on Tuesday 17 December, 4.30pm at Settlers Tavern where Project Manager Peter Brown can answer any questions about the works in person.
'Meet with Pete' sessions will be held monthly throughout the duration of the project. Check mainstreetmakeover.com.au for event dates.
