Transforming Pakenham: Tender approved for Gateway precinct upgrade
Cardinia Shire Council is pleased to announce that the Stage 1 tender for the Pakenham Revitalisation project has been successfully endorsed at the September 2025 Council Meeting.
The Stage 1 tender valued at $3.5 million will be funded by Cardinia Shire Council, the Level Crossing Removal Project and the Victorian Government’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution fund.
With the endorsement of the tender, Council is also formally appointing Blue Peak Constructions Pty Ltd as the contractor for the Stage 1 Main Street Gateway works.
Stage 1 will include streetscape works to the Main Street Gateway precinct, from the rail line at Main Street to the Drake Place roundabout, along with the first section of the Drake Place upgrade.
Stage 1 upgrades will include:
- new road pavement and roundabout reconstruction
- new, wider footpaths for improved pedestrian accessibility
- enhanced lighting
- pedestrian crossing upgrades
- improved landscaping including trees and garden beds
- updated parking for safety and compliance
- new kerb and channel
- high-quality street furniture, bins and seating
- drainage improvements
Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik expressed his enthusiasm about the appointment.
“The Pakenham Revitalisation project represents a significant investment in the future of Pakenham. As one of Victoria’s fastest growing areas, these upgrades will play a vital role in future-proofing Pakenham.”
The Main Street Gateway works mark the beginning of the broader Pakenham Revitalisation Project—a multi-stage initiative to create a more vibrant, welcoming, and connected town centre for all who live, work, and visit.
“I’m excited to see our collective vision of creating a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community come to life. Once complete, local businesses will benefit from increased foot traffic, and the town centre will once again become a real destination.” Mayor Kowarzik said.
Council is committed to minimising disruptions to the community and local businesses throughout construction and this was a priority throughout the tender process.
As a result, Council and Blue Peak Constructions Pty Ltd will be working together to phase the Stage 1 works into 5 smaller, manageable sections of works to minimise disruption to traffic and trade.
Council has also considered the peak trading periods as part of the works program schedule and is endeavouring to minimise works by limiting construction over the December festive period to support local businesses.
“We are committed to working with local businesses to minimise construction impacts and ensure that you can stay open throughout our upgrade works.” Mayor Kowarzik said.
Works are scheduled to start in October 2025, with completion expected by mid 2026.
To stay up to date and for more information on the Pakenham Revitalisation project, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/Pakenham