Waverley Council’s streetscape upgrade works at the intersection of Macpherson Street and St Thomas Street in Bronte have been completed marking a significant milestone for the community.
These works aim to improve safety for pedestrians and all other road users in the busy neighbourhood café strip. The project, funded primarily by Transport for NSW’s Get NSW Active Program 2022/2023, focuses on creating safe, easy, and enjoyable walking and cycling trips. The upgrade includes several noteworthy highlights that enhance the overall streetscape and pedestrian experience.
The improvements include the transformation of the pedestrian crossing on MacPherson Street, elevating it into a raised pedestrian crossing. Additionally, the extension of the kerb on St Thomas Street makes crossing the road more accessible and convenient for pedestrians.
The project also included new garden beds, adding a touch of natural beauty to the area, and creating a more pleasant and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Furthermore, the project addresses important infrastructure concerns by repairing stormwater infrastructure. This vital aspect ensures the long-term functionality and resilience of the upgraded streetscape, providing effective drainage and minimizing the risk of flooding.
Recognizing the importance of future lighting improvements, the upgrade has also made provisions to accommodate these enhancements. Well-lit streets create a safer environment, particularly during nighttime hours, and further promote pedestrian and road user safety.
Mayor Paula Masselos of Waverley passionately underscored the Council’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling the community’s aspirations and fostering Waverley as an exceptional hub for living, working, and conducting business.
With thousands of people passing through this intersection daily on their way to Bronte Beach and Waverley Cemetery, the upgraded streetscape ensures their safety and enhances the overall experience.
Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Member for Coogee, Dr Marjorie O’Neill, acknowledged the significance of the upgrade in facilitating convenient pedestrian movement.
She said that the safer and more accessible streetscape would alleviate parking challenges, encouraging community members to walk to and from Bronte’s high street.
“The new garden beds and stormwater improvements will also make McPherson Street a nicer place to sit outside and have a coffee,” Dr O’Neill said.
“It is fantastic to see these works delivered with funding from the NSW Government, which is committed to delivering the infrastructure that will make our communities safer and easier to walk in.”
Published 10-July-2023