At its meeting last week, Brimbank Council endorsed the framework, which has a range of measures to improve the image, liveability and attractiveness of the centre.

The framework recommends:

Developing the area into a lifestyle precinct and destination instead of just a 'shop and go' centre.

Revitalising the appearance, liveability and attractiveness of the centre and streetscape, including shop fronts, street furniture upgrades and landscaping.

Improving access to the centre through better traffic and pedestrian circulation and improving links between the centre and surrounding attractions.

Making the shopping centre more competitive by encouraging development through Station Road and Burnside Street to extend the street-based shopping experience.

No funds have yet been allocated for the project from the Brimbank Council budget. The framework takes into account residents' views gained through sidewalk talks in the centre in May. A follow-up workshop in June presented initial concepts for comment. The framework was put on public exhibition for community feedback in September.

The Deer Park Village shopping centre was identified as a major activity centre in the Victorian

Government's Melbourne 2030 strategy. A copy of the framework is available at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au