Earlier this month, Wollongong council revealed a long-awaited proposal for the town centre, which would see Corrimal becoming an art-filled, leafy, pedestrian safe haven with a higher population and a better variety of retail outlets and services.

The plan is on exhibition now, with the projects outlined in the document not due to begin for some time, but Cr Bradbery said the new signage would help to "bring a sense of place" and differentiate the town's boundaries.

"The signs help to remind us that the village has a long history, especially with the original inhabitants of Australia," he said.

He urged residents to have their say on other aspects of Corrimal's revitalisation, which is open for comment through the council's website until August 28.

Already online, residents have been responding to the council's plans, with most who have commented welcoming the proposed changes.

One commentator, Clubman, suggested the town should have a community garden and regular farmers' market, and proposed free Wi-Fi - like that in Wollongong mall - be installed.

Many people also said department stores, like Big W, Kmart and Target, should take up tenancies at the old Mitre 10 site, and that a better range of "low cost shops" would be welcome.

Other people called for small trees and shrubs to be planted along the road, weatherproof bus shelters, a free bus and "festive lighting" through the trees.

"Why not take on the example of Las Ramblas in Barcelona, they have a market theme that changes daily, each afternoon," Trisha1 said on the council's forum.

"The zocolos from Mexico could be a great inspiration," Kyliem said. "These places are green, with big trees; they often have water features; plenty of seating; they are safe. It would be difficult to achieve this without a complete redesign given the current placement of the playground - but opening some cafes to the park is a start."