By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
GREATER Dandenong Council has committed itself to ongoing dialogue with traders as part of a revival plan for the Little India cultural precinct in Dandenong.
The area’s fortunes had flagged since several years ago when Revitalising Central Dandenong’s reconstruction of buildings and roads had deterred shoppers and diners.
After consultation with traders, the council last week affirmed its support for the cultural precinct and will consider allocating $40,000 towards improvement works and programs in 2015-’16.
Among the feedback was the need for an ongoing calendar of festivals such as events tying into the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Indian Fashion Week and next year’s World Cup cricket tournament.
Most traders had also called for increasing on-street parking limits from one to two hours.
In a council report, it was found “market conditions and the endeavours of individual business operators” would play a key role in the precinct’s future.
“Ongoing communication is a key to ensuring that all parties are working collaboratively … with particular emphasis directed at the Foster Street Traders Association.”
