Market forces

By Shaun Inguanzo
GREATER Dandenong residents are one step closer to a new and improved Dandenong Market after the council this week approved stage two works.
New and refurbished buildings, including a new meat, fish and delicatessen hall, a new food hall, increased space for fruit and vegetable stalls and improved access for pedestrians and motorists will fall under stage two, which city mayor John Kelly said would cost up to $20 million.
The item was moved by Cleeland Ward councillor Paul Donovan and seconded by Dandenong Ward councillor Jim Memeti.
Cr Donovan said the market redevelopment would be built on borrowings but it would only take 11 years to repay.
“After that we can expect returns to the council and community of about $3 million per annum,” Cr Donovan said.
The council voted in favour of putting stage two works out to tender at Monday night’s ordinary council meeting and now hopes that works will begin in October. The project is tipped to be finished by April 2010.
Cr Donovan said the market’s value was not only in its financial return to the council but also the positive image it painted for Dandenong.
In a statement released after the meeting, Cr Kelly said the market was one of Dandenong’s most iconic attractions.
“This project will breathe new life into an ageing facility,” he said.
“It will bring it into the 21st century and ensure the market is a Dandenong icon for a long time to come.
“Our aim is to make Dandenong Market a landmark regional shopping destination for the south-east.
“This redevelopment will provide broad economic benefits to the entire city.”
A call for tenders will go out on 15 July with a report on the process appearing before the council at its 8 September meeting.
Initial works will focus on facilities behind existing stalls to minimise the construction’s impact on the Christmas trading period.