Frankston Arts Centre visitors will now arrive through a rebuilt forecourt after a $2.1 million upgrade that Frankston City Council says improves safety, accessibility and the overall experience at one of the city’s key cultural venues.
The new entrance is designed to better handle growing crowds at the Arts Centre, which attracts around 160,000 visitors a year, including large numbers of school groups. Council figures show attendance climbed to about 195,000 last year.
Council first identified the need for a forecourt upgrade in 2018. The project was delayed during the COVID 19 pandemic, then delivered in stages so shows and events could continue while construction was under way.
Safer, more accessible entry to Frankston Arts Centre
The redesigned forecourt focuses on separating vehicles and pedestrians and making access smoother for all visitors.
Key features include:
- Wider paths and ramps for people using wheelchairs, prams and mobility aids
- Flatter, smoother surfaces to assist with moving equipment such as grand pianos and catering trolleys
- Clearer vehicle drop off areas and a relocated bus stop to reduce conflict points at the entrance
New lighting has been installed across the space to improve visibility at night and highlight the Arts Centre façade. Extra seating and shelter provide a place for patrons to wait out of the weather before performances.
A larger digital screen now faces the street to promote upcoming performances, while updated signage is intended to help visitors find their way around the precinct more easily.
Frankston City councillor David Asker said the upgrade reinforces the Arts Centre’s importance to both the local arts scene and the wider economy.
“The Arts Centre is one of Frankston City’s biggest drawcards, attracting on average 160,000 visitors each year.”
He said the venue draws audiences from well beyond the municipality.
“This redevelopment cements the Arts Centre’s position as not just an arts and culture institution, but a key player in the vitality of the broader Frankston community.”
New Bunurong-inspired water feature and landscaping
A new water feature and surrounding landscaping sit at the heart of the forecourt, developed with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation.
Council says the design references the importance of waterways and the eel in Bunurong culture, symbolising abundance, vitality and the flow between the street outside and the stories being told on stage inside the centre.
Barbara Crook, Chair of the Frankston Arts Advisory Board, said the space reflects feedback gathered through consultation.
“Council has created a space designed to spark creativity, invite connection, and celebrate the cultural identity of Frankston.”
“We’re proud to see a design that reflects community voices and honours our artistic heritage.”
Upgrade recognises long-time Frankston arts advocates
The opening of the new forecourt follows the recent dedication of the Gail Dudeck Lounge in the mezzanine gallery of the Dress Circle, named after a long-time advocate for the arts in Frankston and a key figure in establishing the original cultural centre.
Mayor Kris Bolam said the improvements acknowledge both the community the Arts Centre serves and the people who helped create it.
“The Frankston Arts Centre continually strives to improve its facilities to reflect the community it serves and to recognise those who helped bring it to life.”
“Continuing this commitment, the newly refurbished forecourt now offers an inviting outdoor space that enhances the overall visitor experience and strengthens the connection between the centre and its community.”
Gail Dudeck’s granddaughter, Amy, said seeing the forecourt finished at the same time as the lounge dedication was significant for the family.
“My grandmother believed the Arts Centre should be a place where everyone feels welcome, and this upgrade truly reflects that vision, creating a space that is accessible, vibrant, and connected to the community she loved.”
Part of wider Frankston city centre investment
Council describes the forecourt project as part of a broader program of investment in Frankston’s city centre, responding to population growth, rising visitor numbers and new development in and around the CBD.
The refreshed forecourt is expected to function both as the main entrance for theatre goers and as a flexible outdoor gathering space for future events and activations.
