Councils and Governments are always looking for ways to make neglected, unsafe spaces safer so that people feel comfortable to gather in them and develop a sense of local pride and ownership. Innovative placemaking solutions such as colourful and artistic Coloured Surface Treatments are playing a big role.
Client problems
Yarra Ranges Council were looking for placemaking solutions that would make places safer, protect the environment, and promote sustainability. They are leaders in this area which meantsh OmniGrip Direct was the perfect partner.
Blacksmiths Way, located in the heart of Belgrave, was previously known for its lack of visual appeal and issues with anti-social behavior.
Yarra Ranges Council recognised the need to transform this space into a vibrant and welcoming area for the community. The council aimed to enhance pedestrian safety and promote a sense of place that would attract both locals and visitors.
The area suffered from extensive graffiti tagging and a general lack of safety, discouraging community engagement.
Given its leadership and advocacy on protecting the natural environment, Yarra Ranges Council needed a sustainable solution that would not only improve the aesthetics of Blacksmiths Way but also ensure long-term durability and minimal maintenance.
Additionally, the council wanted to incorporate recycled materials to showcase their commitment to:
- Sustainable waste management and supporting local recycling industries.
- How to reduce the environmental impact of construction.
- Solutions that increase product life cycles.
Our solution
OmniGrip Direct collaborated closely with the Council to provide a tailored solution using OmniGrip Re-Surface.
This product was chosen for its durability, and ability to incorporate recycled materials, aligning with the council’s sustainability goals. It was also chosen to prioritise slips, trips and falls prevention, ensuring people get home safely every day.
Comprises 75% crushed Australian Coloured Recycled Glass that is made in Victoria. Two applications of a colored surface featuring a graphic of flowing water and platypuses not only increased the visual appeal but also created a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
The project involved careful planning and coordination with local artists to ensure the design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Detailed results and impact
The installation of OmniGrip Re-Surface has helped to transform Blacksmiths Way into a vibrant, safe, and aesthetically pleasing area.
The use of recycled glass in the surfacing process also highlighted the council’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing the practical application of recycled materials in urban development.
The colorful and artistic design has significantly reduced instances of graffiti tagging, as the community now takes pride in the improved space.
Building on the success of our installation, Yarra Ranges Council has since engaged local graffiti artists to install art pieces on surrounding walls, further enhancing the area’s appeal and fostering a sense of community. This initiative has not only beautified Blacksmiths Way but also attracted visitors from beyond the local area, contributing to a vibrant and active public space.
Benefits for the Community
- Enhanced visual appeal with artistic designs that foster community pride and engagement.
- Improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists with increased skid resistance.
- Enduring solution to improve financial sustainability.
- Significant use of recycled materials, supporting local recycling industries and promoting sustainable practices.
- Reduced anti-social behavior due to the increased sense of community ownership and pride in the area.
“Infrastructure that supports walking and cycling can help reduce congestion and encourage community members to enjoy their towns in new ways. The transformation of Blacksmiths Way is a testament to the positive impact of thoughtful urban design and sustainable practices.”
– Mark Varmalis, Director for Environment and Infrastructure, Yarra Ranges Council
“Over many years, Council and other organisations have been working to highlight the importance of reducing waste, putting your rubbish and recyclables in the bin – if you litter, that litter will end up in our waterways, risking the wellbeing of plants and animals in the Dandenongs and further downstream. The new surface in Blacksmiths Way accompanies a nearby platypus mural as a reminder that our actions can directly help – or harm – native wildlife like local platypuses.”
– Johanna Skelton, Deputy Mayor, Lyster Ward, Yarra Ranges Council
Results at a glance
- 7,300 kg of recycled glass used
- Equivalent of 36,500 beer bottles recycled
- 235% increase in cyclists on weekends