It is hoped construction of the precinct, set to become Bendigo’s major public space, will be completed by next Easter.

The project will involve partial decking of the Bendigo Creek and feature a giant lotus.

Bendigo Chinese Association president Russell Jack said the plans were “spot on”.

“We will be the envy of just about every city in Australia once it’s complete,” Mr Jack said.

Decking over the Bendigo Creek will create an upper and lower plaza complete with distinct, contemporary landmarks, paving and plantings that represent both China’s landscape and Bendigo’s heritage.

Paving designed to depict China’s Pearl River Delta and Chinese Calligraphy will be a feature of the project.

Rush Wright Associates principal Skye Haldane, said in being part of the development of the plans, her firm tried to capture the richness of Chinese culture and history in Bendigo.

“The lotus forms a key landmark and is quite an important symbol in Buddhist culture,” Ms Haldane said.

The lotus will also provide seating and allow visitors to step between the upper and lower plazas.

Other Chinese flowers to be featured include a chrysanthemum structure that will double as an all access ramp between the two levels and large metal Allium.

Plantings of bamboo and conifers will also be a feature, creating a strong link with Rosalind Park.

Dai Gum San was selected as the name for the precinct as this was the traditional name of Bendigo used by Chinese in the 1850s.

The redevelopment project is being undertaken with funding support from the Federal ($1.9m) and State ($1.6m) governments as well as the City of Greater Bendigo ($900,000).

It stems from a master planning exercise undertaken by the City of Greater Bendigo that began in 2006.

Work is expected to start in November.