RADIUS hopes it can add another dimension to the retail precinct at the High Street end of Mitchell Street as its conversion of the former Toyworld building reaches new levels.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The not-for-profit disability services provider will start to fit out the Morley Johnson Building this month, creating a space on the ground floor for a licensed cafe, retail areas and live music.
Radius chief executive officer Cath McDonald said they wanted to tap into the volumes of pedestrians on Mitchell Street.
“We’ll be marketing to these people who walk past our site – we see them as potential customers,” she said.
“We’re absolutely excited about being at the bus stop area on Mitchell Street.
“What we’re creating may lead the way for a retail change in Bendigo’s CBD.”
The works, which started in March this year, will include areas for food, recycled clothing and original homewares produced by Radius’ design team on the bottom floor.
There is also room for bar facilities overlooking southern Bendigo.
Ms McDonald said the overall works will create a unique place for business, retail and entertainment in Bendigo.
“I think people are tired of just walking into a shop and that’s it – we want to create an experience,” she said.
“It’s going to be fantastic and will help us to create an inclusive Bendigo.”
The Bendigo Business Council put its support behind the project, which will create 50 new jobs for people with a disability.
Chief executive officer Leah Sertori said the project will “increase the vibrancy of the CBD”.
“A business of this nature will draw visitors from around the region and further abroad into the heart of Bendigo,” she said.
“Bendigo Business Council encourages diverse, dynamic retail and hospitality activity within the CBD to drive increased visitation.
“Radius’ latest venture ticks those boxes and will attract new traffic into the centre of town, promoting Bendigo as an inclusive, welcoming city.
“The Bendigo Business Council are pleased to see a demand for a CBD address for small business being met.”
The third floor of the building will include space for board meetings and other events, while the top floor will be used for training and education courses.
Radius plans to have the first floor open to the public by the end of this year.