Construction on Western Australia’s first pedestrian priority precinct has commenced on Hay Street in the east end of Perth’s CBD.
As part of the City of Perth’s East End Revitalisation Program, key features of the precinct include reducing speed limits for vehicles to 20km/h, wider footpaths, upgraded LED lighting and a greater opportunity for outdoor dining to encourage people to stay longer.
“With alfresco dining, new street trees and attractive street furniture, visitors, residents and workers will be encouraged to dwell, eat and shop in the area,” City of Perth Chair Commissioner Andrew Hammond said.
Aiming to change the character of the street, the Hay Street pedestrian priority is a unique and innovative collaborative project between the City of Perth and Main Roads.
Both organisations have worked together to orchestrate the pedestrian priority design, providing more space, safety and amenity for people of all abilities without compromising the functionality of the street.
Street furniture and street trees will be installed to help delineate the carriageway and there will be wide designated pedestrian crossings in key areas for the visually impaired.
“The program will support the creation of great streets; streets that are comfortable, safe and tree-lined with plenty of reasons to stay,” Chair Commissioner Hammond said.
“The design will ensure an inclusive space for all users, making sure the area is as accessible as possible for people with and without disability.”
Main Roads Director of Congestion and Movement Strategy Mehdi Langroudi said he was happy to see a contemporary urban design of the highest quality adopted by City of Perth to ensure delivery of an exciting public space where pedestrians were prioritised.
“At Main Roads, we care about improving the road environment and will continue to support good urban designs which balance the needs of all road users,” Mr Langroudi said.
Once completed, it is expected that a total of 91 trees, both native and exotic, will be planted along the street and in planter boxes as part of the City’s Urban Forest Plan.
The canopy cover will mitigate the urban heat island effect, while stormwater retention and water harvesting tree pits will work to create a sustainable environment in the area.
Overall, the East End Revitalisation Program aims to improve the environment, character and permeability of Hay, Pier and Irwin Streets ensuring they are great, accessible and safe places for the community to be.
To encourage visitors and to support local businesses impacted during construction, the City of Perth has developed a business continuity guide and a voucher scheme for the East End.
Patrons are encouraged to visit Hay and Pier Streets and keep an eye out for City of Perth staff handing out $10 vouchers to spend at selected businesses in the area.
Additional voucher scheme businesses are listed below:
Bean Sprout
The Godfather Barber Shop
WooJeong Restaurant
Croissant Express
Smashup
Cal’s Camera Repairs
Retro Bar
Stuzzico Pizza
Craven’s Pharmacy
OMG Coffee
