Frankston City Council is ramping up pressure on landlords of neglected commercial buildings in the heart of the city, issuing dozens of notices in a crackdown on derelict shopfronts and eyesore properties.
A recent inspection of the Frankston CBD identified 65 properties breaching local laws due to visible damage, graffiti, structural neglect and general disrepair. Property owners have been formally warned to address the issues or face fines and legal action.
“We don’t want skid row — we want commercial shopfronts that inspire confidence,” said Mayor Kris Bolam.
“We’re putting millions into revitalising Frankston. It’s only fair that private owners contribute to the effort.”
The enforcement blitz is part of Council’s broader push to clean up the city and support its transition into a more vibrant, business-ready regional centre. It follows the Federal Government’s $50 million commitment to upgrade the Nepean Highway precinct and a string of local beautification projects.
In addition to compliance measures, Council is working with Victoria Police on a $100,000 community safety program. The initiative will provide officers with new bicycles and mobile access to CCTV, enabling more responsive patrols in key locations such as Young Street and around Frankston Station.
Recent improvements also include daily graffiti removal, stepped-up footpath and street cleaning, and the planting of almost 4,000 new plants to brighten public spaces and improve amenity.
The Frankston Business Collective has backed the clean-up, saying a well-presented streetscape is essential for economic recovery. CEO Bernadine Geary said,
“Customers and investors are drawn to places that look like they’re thriving. Landlords who let buildings fall into disrepair are hurting everyone’s bottom line.”
Council says it will continue pursuing action until all non-compliant properties are brought up to standard.
“Frankston is changing — and fast,” said Mayor Bolam. “This isn’t about gentrification; it’s about respect for the city, for businesses, and for the people who live here.”
Yamala Ward Cr Nathan Butler whose ward include central Frankston, welcomed the crackdown, saying:
“Governments are heavily investing, and with our Frankston Metropolitan Activity Centre (FMAC) structure plan now approved and the cornerstone of our planning laws, private development is taking off in a big way.”
What do you think — should property owners be held more accountable for the appearance of their buildings?
Share your thoughts in the comments or send us a message.
Yes! For years businesses have whinged and complain but done very little. Very sad that you don’t see shopkeepers sweeping their parts of the footpath anymore
I agree with Council, Frankston is definitely leveling up with new venues, events, beautification plus new building developments. It’s time for Frankston to look and be better in every way, I’ve lived here all my life and love it. It’s been unfair that Frankston always gets a bad rap when there’s other suburbs worse! I’m so excited for what’s going on here.