An exciting facelift, which will transform the Canterbury Town Centre and create a cultural, social and business destination, is expected to get underway before the end of the year.

Stage 2 of the Canterbury Town Centre revitalisation project will see a further $9 million invested in the precinct, which will meet the demands of the local community.

Mayor Khal Asfour said the works will create an air of excitement in the heart of our City.

“This area is growing, and we need to adapt to the community’s needs,” he said.

Some of the major works will include:

Installing lights and widening the Canterbury Road shared path underpass, which is part of the Cooks River regional cycleway. The upgrade will allow pedestrians and bike users to share the path without dismounting or hitting their head; andRealignment of the Canterbury Road, Close Street and Charles Street intersection where new traffic lights will also be installed. This will benefit local residents and shoppers, as they will be able to turn right from Charles Street into Canterbury Road.

Mayor Asfour said: “These changes will make an enormous difference to residents and the community, and once completed, will lead to a safer, more convenient and accessible space.”

“Of course, there will be some disruptions as we complete the work, but we will work with residents and businesses to keep them to a minimum."

“We will be ensuring a staged approach and will update all concerned parties throughout the works.”

Council is working through the final logistics with the contractor. Work on Stage 2 is expected to begin later this year and take about 12 months to complete.