The City Renewal Authority is planning upgrades to the public spaces in the Dickson Shops and community consultation on the project is now underway.
The Canberra community is invited to participate in public consultation running from 12 March to 23 April 2024.
The upgrades aim to create a safe, connected, and inviting local shopping and community hub.
The proposed improvements will ensure the Dickson Shops meet the needs of a growing residential population and attracts visitors, in turn supporting business and economic activity.
These upgrades will complement the recent Woolley Street works which include an enhanced pedestrian crossing at the southern end of Woolley Street and an upgraded plaza, which recently played host to 10,000 people for Lunar New Year in Dickson.
City Renewal Authority CEO, Malcolm Snow said that the proposed upgrades have been carefully designed to lift the quality of the public environment and strengthening Dickson's unique charm and character.
"We have drawn inspiration from previous extensive feedback from local stakeholders and community members, including insights from the Dickson Place Plan.
"With construction scheduled to commence in 2025, the project has now reached a crucial stage where community input is sought to refine the proposed design concept further. We are seeking feedback and suggestions on the concept plans to make Dickson Shops a more accessible, modern, and welcoming place for the community and traders." said Mr Snow.
The proposed upgrades will include:
- stormwater upgrades
- improved paving
- enhanced lighting and other safety features
- decluttering of Taglietti Square (library plaza) and other courtyards
- preservation of mature trees in elevated planters
- consideration of existing and new public artworks
- opportunities for incidental play
- improved seating opportunities
- widening the pedestrian link from Cowper Street to the post office; and
- improved pedestrian connections across Badham Street.
To participate in the consultation process, Canberrans can visit the proposed designs online or attend one of the drop-in sessions outside Dickson Library on 4 and 13 April 2024.
