​A popular Lakemba intersection now shines thanks to an array of colourful lanterns, crescent moons and festive lights to honour the town centre’s rich multicultural history, in particular middle eastern culture and faith.

Council’s $1.5 million Lakemba Lights project, which was funded in partnership with Transport for NSW under the "Your High Street" grant program, sought to beautify and increase pedestrian safety at the intersection Haldon and Oneata Streets.

In addition to the new lighting, the project also included:

• Widening the footpath space, improving pedestrian access;

• Installing better seating and shelter;

• Increasing landscaping and tree canopy; and

• Modifying the traffic environment to enhance pedestrian safety.

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Khal Asfour said the new lighting will be the first thing to grab your attention, and a lot of community consultation and thought was put into the project.

“We really wanted to improve this part of the town centre, by creating a safe, comfortable and attractive space for people to come together as a community,” Mayor Asfour said.

“The signature lighting is one element of the project, the work also included widening the footpath, increased landscaping and tree canopy, more seating and shelter space and modifying the traffic environment to enhance pedestrian safety."

“I’m thrilled to see this project finished in time for one of our community’s most cherished traditions – the Ramadan night markets, which is celebrated by our diverse population and also enjoyed by those outside the Islamic faith.”

More than 1.2 million people attended the month-long festival last year, and it is now recognised as an event of State Significance.

This year, Ramadan Nights Lakemba will be held every night until 20 April. For more information, visit cb.city/Ramadan

The Lakemba Town Centre has received several state and federal government grants and some exciting new projects are now being planned. More information on those projects will be announced to the community soon.