In late 2017, JOC Consulting was commissioned by Dungog Shire Council to develop a Place Making Strategy for Dungog Town Centre as part of the NSW Government’s Future Towns Program.
JOC implemented an immersive approach to research and the engagement to ensure the tight project timeframes were met.
Over a one week period, the project hosted a series of interactive sessions at the local Visitor Information Centre and Dungog Contemporary Gallery. With these locations as the base (or first stop), participants were invited to join a ‘walk-shop’ through Dungog’s character-filled high street. Using Dowling Street as a storyboard, the session provided opportunities for participants to exchange ideas in situ, participating in a dynamic discussion, and suggest site-relevant responses. In addition to the ‘walk-shop’, JOC created a pop-up office alongside the Dungog Festival team. The space welcomed locals for casual surveys and interviews, as well as home-baked cookies.
In total, JOC gathered over 300 ideas from members of the community, schools and businesses. In analysing the engagement results and with other inputs like demographic, contextual and trend research, we were able to present a list of actionable, effective place making interventions and designs for two large-scale demonstration projects.
JOC is excited to continue this journey with the Dungog community and see the town’s energy shine through the implementation of ideas supported by the Place Making Strategy. The latest project update can be found here with an article on the Dungog Chronicle.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the Dungog Place Making Strategy, contact us via social media or email Connie Steers, Creative Urban Planner connie@jocconsulting.com.au
