Big Changes at Our Front Door

Published on 06 June 2025

Frankston Arts Centre is excited to embark on a $2.1 million redevelopment of its forecourt—an ambitious project designed to enhance accessibility, safety, and visitor experience. Thanks to valuable community feedback and full funding from Frankston City Council, the new design will transform the Centre’s entrance into a vibrant, welcoming space for all who visit.

From improved lighting and landscaping to public art installations and better separation between pedestrians and vehicles, the upgrades will not only beautify the space but ensure safer, easier access for patrons—including our cherished Daytime Music + Theatre audiences.

But what does this transformation mean in practice? We spoke with Leane, one of the friendly faces who welcomes Daytime Music + Theatre patrons at the front entrance, to get a behind-the-scenes look at what this upgrade means for visitors—and those who work hard to make every experience enjoyable and safe.

“It’s All About the Welcome”

Leane, a long-standing usher at the Centre, is one of the first people our Daytime Music + Theatre patrons see when they arrive.

“My day usually starts with setting up the area with the safety procedures—walkway bunting, bollards, and so on,” Leane says. “We have patrons arrive as early as 9am, so I’m at the front door to both greet and assist them into the venue, and to direct traffic to make sure everyone is safe.”

It’s a role that blends logistics and warmth—offering a smile, a helping hand, and crucial support in navigating what’s often a busy entrance.

Challenges of the Current Space

For many years, the forecourt’s layout has posed significant challenges, especially during peak times like Daytime Music + Theatre show days.

“Despite the clear pathways, many patrons were used to walking across the forecourt to enter,” Leane explains. “We had more cars than usual doing drop-offs, and buses carrying up to 15 patrons at a time. That meant traffic often backed up on Davey Street, and navigating through the space became difficult and sometimes unsafe.”

As someone stationed right at the heart of the action, Leane has often found herself “playing traffic warden” during peak arrival and departure times.

“At the end of the afternoon show, everyone leaves together,” she says. “Buses all want the best waiting space, and taxis pull up in front of them. I have to make sure patrons can safely get into their vehicles without others moving at the same time.”

A New Space for a New Experience

So, what will the redeveloped forecourt mean for our patrons?

“I think they’ll really appreciate the more inviting space,” says Leane. “Many don’t want to wait in a crowd in the foyer before a show. The new layout will give them room to spill out, wait in comfort, and meet up with friends.”

She’s especially excited about the improved safety and accessibility.

“Smoother surfaces will make a huge difference for wheelchairs, walkers, and prams—not to mention hospitality trolleys and grand pianos,” she says with a smile. “And the lighting and landscaping will make it feel more welcoming instead of the ‘boring’ entrance we had.”

Looking Ahead

This six-month redevelopment is a significant step forward for Frankston Arts Centre—one that ensures we continue offering a world-class experience in a space that reflects the creativity, care, and community spirit at our heart.

“We’re all really looking forward to welcoming everyone to the new forecourt,” says Leane. “It’s going to feel like a whole new way to arrive at the Arts Centre—safer, more inviting, and just that little bit special.”

We thank you for your patience and support during this exciting time and can’t wait to reveal the refreshed space soon.

What You Need to Know

While construction is underway, the forecourt driveway is no longer accessible to vehicles. While the front entrance on Davey Street remains open for pedestrians, patrons are encouraged to plan their visit ahead of time:

• Drop-Offs: Find a safe roadside spot nearby to drop off guests or use the undercover car park with lift access to our theatre.
• Extra Time: Walking distances may be slightly longer, and lifts will be busier—so arrive early.
• Carpooling: Share a ride with friends attending the show to reduce congestion.

Clear signage and alternative routes will be in place, and regular updates will be shared with ticket holders.