Contractors sought for Bridge Street redevelopment

The City of Ballarat has opened an Expressions of Interest (EOI) process to identify contractors to deliver the Bridge Street redevelopment, marking an important milestone for the revitalisation project. 

With works on the $15 million mall redevelopment planned to commence next year, the EOI process has opened for delivery of the main civil works. 

A separate EOI is also being advertised for a specialist design and construct contractor to deliver the new bridge-like play space. 

Fully funded by the City of Ballarat, the $15 million Bridge Street redevelopment is part of the wider renewal of the Bakery Hill precinct. The redevelopment covers upgrades to the mall between Grenville and Peel Streets, Grenville Street between Curtis and Little Bridge Street, with minor access and safety improvements to pockets of Little Bridge Street. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Councillor Daniel Moloney said reaching the Expression of Interest stage marks a significant milestone for the long-awaited mall redevelopment. 

"The City of Ballarat is thrilled to be getting on with delivering the Bridge Street redevelopment,” he said. 

“This project will be transformational — it will return Bridge Street to the vibrant destination it once was, attracting shoppers, diners, residents and visitors. 

“We look forward to commencing works next year.” 

Key design features include a landscaped entry from Sturt Street into Bridge Street, a shared streetscape with one-way low-speed vehicle access, smart street lighting and projections, limited parking and better access for people of all abilities. 

It also includes new street furniture and bluestone paving, cultural elements reflected in the designs, including a portal to the Yarrowee River flowing beneath the street, and event friendly spaces for markets, festivities, and special events. 

The bridge-inspired play space includes multiple levels of access, challenge and playful adventure. It includes a barrier integrated into the design, providing a secure zone for play and exploration. It also features seating, open spaces, pram parking and provides parents and carers with sightlines for supervision. 

The concept design for the play space will continue to be refined in line with construction costs. Elements of the play space may need to be adapted or removed to ensure the project falls within budget. 

The EOI process for the Bridge Street civil works and play space close on 12pm Wednesday 9 November. Interested parties can download the EOI documentation at eprocure.com.au/ballarat. 

Following this, a shortlist of suitable contractors will be identified and invited to tender. Ballarat City Council expect to award the contracts and commence works as soon as possible once the contractors have been appointed.  

Construction is expected to take 12 to 18 months.