Mainstreet SA Conference delivers insights, analysis and discussion on developing thriving precincts
Last week we were proud to be a sponsor of the Mainstreet SA State Conference, which was held over two days and jointly hosted by two of Adelaide’s mainstreet-focussed councils, the Cities of Norwood Payneham & St Peters and Unley.
The two-day conference was packed with local, national and international insights, analysis and discussion about what makes a thriving mainstreet, and a range of case studies that demonstrated how mainstreet precincts can be transformed into safe, prosperous and connected communities.
“A highlight for me was definitely Bjorn Bergman, who shared his experiences in creating flourishing mainstreets across Sweden and the models that could be adapted for use in an Australian context,” says Michael McKeown, Jensen PLUS Director.
“It was also great to hear from Steven Burgess, a valued colleague of Jensen PLUS, about car parking in and around mainstreets.”
Two case studies also really stood out, not just for their outcomes but also for the community engagement that ensured the projects were a success.
“Kerry Daly (Camberwell Junction) and James McInerney (Assemblo) shared the development of the Camberwell Junction brand and highlights of the multi-channel marketing strategy that has positioned them as a premier retail and health and wellness destination,” says Michael.
“It was brilliant to hear how they created a visually strong brand for the precinct while retaining the area’s history and character, and how they did that by drawing on local experiences and insights.”
In a regional context, Louise Custance from Kangaroo Island Council shared the challenges and outcomes of a mainstreet revitalisation that delivered significant safety outcomes and strategies for community development through simple yet effective improvements.
“There were plenty more insightful presentations and interesting discussions across the two days.”
Congratulations to David West and the Mainstreet SA Committee for presenting a diverse and valuable conference program!
