Shopping precincts at Sutherland, Caringbah and Gymea are set for an $8 million facelift after Sutherland Shire Council secured $4 million in Federal Government funding.
Sutherland Shire Mayor Councillor Lorraine Kelly said work would start immediately and that it would help secure local jobs during the current economic downturn.
“Large-scale spending like this will help insulate our community from the effects of the downturn and this work will mean there will be more employment opportunities available while the projects are under way,” said Kelly.
“Without this support from the Federal Government council’s work in upgrading shopping facilities would have taken much longer,” she said.
The $4 million grant comes from the Federal Government’s $550 million regional and local community infrastructure program, however, Sutherland Shire Council has to contribute a further $4 million – matching the grant dollar for dollar.
Work at Sutherland, Caringbah and Gymea will be undertaken over the next two years to upgrade paving, stormwater drainage and lighting. The areas will also have new street furniture and bicycle racks installed.