​Council to begin work on the makeover of the Gray Street Plaza Milton

Clutha District Council will begin work on the makeover of the Gray Street Plaza, the final phase of improvements to Milton’s CBD main street area.

Work began in June 2023 to upgrade aged water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure on Union Street, between High Street to Abercrombie Street, as well as undergrounding overhead powerlines.

Clutha District Council Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the final plaza improvement work, situated at the destination toilets, includes new curbs, garden beds, paving, footpaths, landscape including installation of new lighting furniture and plants.

“This will be the focal point for the town and will transform and modernise Milton’s appearance.

Improving Milton’s main street was one of the top priorities identified in the Our Place Milton community plan and the Council’s long-term plan. The main street is a busy route for motorists on State Highway 1, as well as a major focal point for the community, with many important buildings, shops, and public spaces. This project will replace critical infrastructure and is a big step towards revitalising Union Street, making it a more attractive destination.

The approved budget of $1.1 million to complete the plaza work was less than what was originally decided as Council acknowledged while the work was important, it needed to be completed with a reduced scope and budget.

Local contractor, Andrew Haulage (2011) Ltd will begin the work on September 1 and aim to be completed by mid-January.

Due to the location of the works, unfortunately some disruption is unavoidable.

To limit disruption, the work is being completed in stages, to try and minimise the impact to businesses and residents as much as is feasibly possible.

The contractor will work to ensure there is access to allow people to enter shops and houses. Where there are interruptions to the footpath access and the parking lanes, one side of the path and road will be clear.

Traffic will be able to travel in both directions but there will be safety measures and a 30km speed restriction in place.

The work site will be surrounded by safety fencing to protect people, the worksite and traffic. Traffic controllers are on site during the day to assist as well.

The council appreciates your patience and understanding throughout this entire project and acknowledges the long-term disruption to the main street.