The Dandenong CBD has seen significant investment over the past couple of decades to develop the town centre as both an economic hub and a destination celebrating the incredible cultural diversity of Greater Dandenong.

The Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative, which was launched in 2005, has invested $290 million in projects such as Government offices and public spaces, upgrading arts venues and the Dandenong Market.

A new stage of the initiative is about to commence with Capital Alliance investing $700 million and releasing their masterplan for a number of sites in central Dandenong, close to the station. The first part to be redeveloped will be the Little India precinct on Thomas Street, with completion expected in 2026.

The plan is to build on the strong presence of Indian culture and businesses within Dandenong and create high rise residential development with a fine grain, market atmosphere at street level. There are already 33 Indian businesses in the precinct, with 62 throughout central Dandenong. The intention is to give these businesses upgraded facilities, increase pedestrian-only malls and create more activity by virtue of adding apartments above street level.

The scheme includes inspiring concept illustrations which show how the precinct will celebrate Indian culture and a sense that this will be a destination that will attract local Indian shoppers and tourists alike.

Although we understand that the masterplan has undergone consultation with major stakeholders such as Development Victoria and Greater Dandenong Council, the businesses that are intended to occupy the renewed precinct are yet to be consulted. Given this, there may only be so much the scheme can do to accommodate the unique viewpoints and preferences of the Little India traders.

Although there is no formal consultation at the moment, if you would like to have your say, visit the feedback section at https://rcd.capitalalliancegroup.com/ and let the masterplan team know your thoughts on the project.

Image: artist’s impression from the Capital Investment Group brochure