Work begins on Monday in the $1.6 million project to enhance outdoor dining and social spaces and encourage business development.

Second stage works will focus on Orient Street, from North Street to Beach Road, and will include new kerb and guttering, repaved and widened pathways using new and recycled pavers, new trees, seating and bin surrounds, more on-street parking, landscaping and the installation of fairy lights and totem poles.

It will also include associated underground infrastructure, such as water pipes, power and conduits for future telecommunications.

Council will also add the finishing touches, including landscaping and totem poles, to the stage one works on North Street, from Perry Street to Orient Street.

Designs for the streetscaping project were developed in conjunction with a community project committee comprising local business representatives and were adopted by Council following extensive community consultation.

Council’s Infrastructure Services Director Warren Sharpe said crews aimed to complete the project mid-year.

“We understand the works will cause inconvenience during construction and we appreciate the patience and support of businesses during this period,” he said.

“It is important for the community to remember that Batemans Bay CBD will still be open for business during the works and I encourage residents to keep visiting their favourite stores in Orient Street as this exciting project continues.”