The $100,000 streetscape upgrade on Front Street in Mossman is part of the Council’s 2014/2015 Capital Works Program.

The Front Street streetscape project was developed as a much needed upgrade, while at the same time retaining the town’s historic and rural appeal. It includes additions such as trees in planter boxes, seating and creating a new look for the proposed Triangle Park.

The works completed to date are the garden upgrades including the installation of five planter boxes with feature street trees.  New street furniture including bins and seating have been installed at the Post Office.

The traffic island will feature tiles and coloured flowstone material together with a custom-built seat under the shade of the historic River Cherry tree.

Newsport invited all incumbents and candidates to comment on the Mossman streetscape upgrade.

Mayor Julie Leu said the features will be enjoyed by everyone.

“The seat will be made from robust hardwood timber and will complement the town’s historic feel. The other finishing touches still to be completed include three more bins, stainless steel cigarette receptacles added to the bins, irrigation to the planters and minor paving repairs to existing footpaths,” she said.

Cr Bruce Clarke said this was an important project for the overall presentation of the Mossman township.

“In my opinion, it is going very well at present. The planter boxes and new rubbish receptacles are in place, and I think they look great.  The upgrade of the pavement under the tree in Front Street is well under way and when finished, it will look very good.

“The only complaint I am getting is about the construction of the seating under the tree.  The general opinion is that is should be scaled down to a minimum. I agree with this, as it could generate future problems, mainly for the Mossman and and Exchange Hotels, but time will tell,” he said.

Councillor candidate Michael Kerr said Mossman is the Shire’s CBD so development is important to increase new business.

“The presentation of Mossman for commerce and tourism is of high priority as is other well visited areas of the Shire,” he said.

Councillor candidate Donna Graham said she supports initiatives that make our key streetscapes more attractive and user friendly.

“Front Street is the heart of Mossman. I am concerned however, as to the significance of the likely results of the current project.  The plans available on the Council website show works that are essentially some new street trees, mainly in pots and new pavement and seating in the triangle park with space for some public art. The potted street trees are a good idea and should look great.

“For the cost involved, I hope that the works in the triangle park produce a much greater visual impact than I can envisage from the plans,” she said.

Cr Terry Melchert said he has received positive feedback about the project.

“Work is underway on this project with new seating, litter bins and planter boxes being installed at the moment.  Council planned the work in a consultative way and I have received nothing but positive feedback,” he said.

Cr David Carey said Mossman is the administrative centre of the Shire.

“As the administrative centre of Douglas it is important that Mossman is presented as an attractive place to work, do business and to visit.  The Mossman streetscape has been looking tired for some time and a facelift is appropriate,” he said.

Cr Abigail Noli said over time everything needs maintenance and the Mossman streetscape has been identified as needing an upgrade.

“As well as creating pride in the places of the Shire that you live, an upgrade ties in well with a concerted effort to keep tourists in the area as long as possible by enticing them to stop instead of just driving through.  Combined in conjunction with the exciting Mossman Botanic Garden project, it will be a boost to the town,” she said.

Councillor candidate Vivienne Ruffles said that beautification and landscaping in any public space can be a benefit.

“People are driving through and not stopping.  Trailer homes and caravans have no parking so they’re either driving straight through to the Daintree or turning off to go to the Mossman Gorge,” she said.

Mayoral candidate Roy Weavers stated that he can only comment from the sideline.

“It would seem the Councillors should be the driving force behind these projects not the executive administration,” he said.