New art lighting installation to revitalise Orange retail laneway

A laneway in central Orange which is avoided by the public due to safety concerns is being transformed and made safer via the installation of an art lighting project.

Orange businesses have welcomed a Council decision to install the new lighting art project to transform the laneway connecting Summer Street to the Orange Central Square Shopping Centre car park which is avoided by people for safety reasons.

Council chose a design by artist Daniel Templeman, which will include a lighting installation attached to the ceiling of the 60-metre pedestrian walkway that runs between the ‘Kathmandu’ and ‘Bed, Bath & Table’ stores on Summer Street.

The cost of the $200,000 project will be shared equally by a grant from the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grant for Arts and Culture program and Orange City Council.

Orange Deputy Mayor Gerald Power said the project would transform an important pathway in the city noting “this laneway is pretty much at the centre of the city and is well overdue for improvements. The fact that we can improve safety and lighting and beautify the laneway is a win-win.

“Both Council and businesses nearby believe the upgrade will change the way residents use this dimly-lit pedestrian pathway that’s currently a target for graffiti and vandalism.”

The Retail Manager from Charter Hall, operator of the Orange Central Square Shopping Centre, Dana Irving, has been involved in the selection process.

Irving added “Charter Hall owns part of the laneway so we have been delighted to work with Council to reinvigorate the laneway.

“Charter Hall is also excited to be partnering with Council and the chosen artist Daniel Templeton to create a blank canvas.”

The United Dance Project owner Leesa Chaseling enthused “We’ve been in this location just off the laneway for nine years and now knowing the area will shortly be upgraded is so exciting.

“It’s going to make the entrance to the dance studio so much more inviting for the families with small children who come to our classes every week.”

Kira Brown from Sauce Design which operates from the nearby Anson Plaza welcomed the decision to install the lighting installation and added “It’s good to see funds being spent on this laneway that has desperately needed a facelift for many years, and will require ongoing funding to maintain.

“An installation such as this will transform the laneway into a more positive space and add some vibrancy to the city.”

The installation will start in the new year.

Image. Orange Regional Gallery Director Bradley Hammond, Orange Central Square Shopping Centre Retail Manager Dana Irving, United Dance Project owner Leesa Chaseling and Orange Councillor Tony Mileto in the laneway.