Community engagement for Village Precinct Projects
Tailored consultation and activation with the community is an important component of Village Precinct Projects with information sessions, workshops and activation event/s held from project inception, though construction, to final completion.
The community engagement approaches vary from project to project.
The involvement of the community in the planning and design process builds a sense of community ownership and quickly identifies what is important to those who work or visit each local centre. Depending on project scale, Council offers the community an opportunity to have their say on precinct improvement opportunities via on- site information kiosks and on-line community survey, prior to the development of the improvement proposal.
Prior to the construction phase, Council will communicate the final improvement proposal and what to expect during the project delivery, through newsletters and website updates, targeted communication with local businesses and/or property owners.
Council will consult with each business in the centre to ensure minimal disruption occurs during construction. Access to every shop in the shopping centre will be maintained during business hours.
Project milestones and community building are celebrated through community activation events. The completion event is a great opportunity for local businesses to promote their business and for the community to showcase local talent, network and enjoy the entertainment and activities.
Village Precinct Projects are promoted through a range of marketing materials that may include project newsletters, information sessions, place surveys, media releases, social media, event invitations and posters.
Typical engagement stages for Village Precinct Projects
Project launch
Site investigation and seeking community feedback.
Opportunities proposal
Release of opportunities proposal for seeking community feedback.
Construction
Release of final improvement plan and construction information.
Completion
Activation event to promote the upgraded precinct and to seek community feedback.