The City of Ballarat (the City) is preparing strategic planning documents for the Ballarat CBD and Bridge Mall. This will build upon strategic work already completed by the City, which articulates the vision and objectives for the CBD area. This work commenced with the adoption of the Ballarat CBD Strategy in 2010 and continued most recently, with the approval for the Bakery Hill and Bridge Mall Precinct Urban Renewal Plan, adopted by Council in October 2019. 

Increased investment in the CBD is presenting Ballarat with the critical opportunity to invest in the design quality of its built environment and public realm. As we anticipate that health, education and professional services will continue to generate employment opportunities in support of the existing retail and hospitality trade, increased residential offerings will further contribute to a thriving, connected and distinctive neighbourhoods. The strategic planning documents will will be in the form of a structure plan and built form guidelines to inform principles and guidelines for future development in the CBD while protecting the important heritage and landscape characteristics of Ballarat.