A large-scale mural by artist Nicole Black has added a colourful finishing touch to stage two of Victor Harbor’s Mainstreet Upgrade.

The ugly brick wall of the Telstra Exchange building in Ocean Street has been transformed and Mayor Moira Jenkins says it demonstrates the importance of public art.

“My vision is a town centre that is filled with murals and art on every blank wall.”

She says council offers a number of grants that can help achieve this if people are interested in getting involved.

Meanwhile the City of Victor Harbor has announced South Australian company Axiom Projects SA has been awarded the tender to begin construction of stage three of its Mainstreet Upgrade project.

This will see the eastern side of Coral Street upgraded to create a fresh new promenade to the foreshore, which will be reinvigorated as a multi-functional space for local events and festivals. 

As part of the upgrade, Coral Street will be enhanced with new wider footpaths, integration of artwork and seating, and new lighting and cycling infrastructure.

Axiom Projects has engaged a local Victor Harbor company Coastal Landscapes to help deliver the project.

“We are excited to be part of this next stage of the Victor Harbor Mainstreet upgrade. It’s a privilege to be involved in a project that is really delivering the community and council's vision,” says Sean McCarthy, Director of Axiom Projects SA.

The company recently delivered the award-winning Kapunda Town Square Upgrade in Light Regional Council, which has become a new heart for the local community.

Dr Jenkins says it is important to progress the upgrades and focus on summer seasons ahead.

“This is a particularly difficult time for Victor Harbor businesses and residents, but our local economy will return post COVID-19, and as a community we will recover. 

“It is important that we continue to plan for and invest in Victor Harbor’s bright future, and that we continue to improve our town centre’s infrastructure.

“The foreshore in particular is a much-loved but under-used asset, and this next stage will integrate improvements including wider footpaths, better cycling access, greening and turf upgrade and new lighting and artwork, attracting people to enjoy the new space.”

The construction works will begin in May and will be completed this year. The City of Victor Harbor has received 50 per cent funding for this stage through the SA Government’s Places for People Grant Program.