Akuna Street upgrade contributes to a more connected city centre


Released 13/12/2019

The final stage of the Akuna Street public space upgrade has now been completed, contributing to a more attractive and accessible city centre as part of the City Renewal Authority’s ongoing program to revitalise the precinct’s public environment.

The recent $3.5m works on Akuna Street between London Circuit and City Walk, which began in late 2018, include upgrades to the footpaths, paving, lighting, landscaping and street trees, as well as raising and widening the busy signalised pedestrian crossing with City Walk to make it safer and more accessible.

City Renewal Authority chief executive Malcolm Snow said upgrading the pedestrian crossing in Akuna Street was the last stage of works along the street, presenting a consistent and high-quality finish to a busy area in the precinct.

“The Authority is focussed on making a more appealing and connected city centre for businesses and the community. This means that ageing public infrastructure needs to be replaced and reinvigorated to meet these expectations,” Mr Snow said.

“Upgrading the old footpaths, which were around 50 years old, contributes to more attractive public spaces but also a safer and more accessible city centre with wider, well-lit footpaths and an upgraded pedestrian crossing.

“Having accessible, pedestrian-friendly public spaces is vital for a modern city centre, and the new pedestrian crossing not only slows vehicular traffic, but also makes it safer and easier for members of our community who may have accessibility challenges.”

The Akuna Street works are among a program of public space upgrades starting with the completed footpath upgrades to London Circuit, between Bailey’s Corner and Akuna Street, and continuing with upgrades to Mort Street, Civic, which are expected to be completed in early 2020.

Work will start next year on streetscape upgrades in Braddon, Dickson and Haig Park, consistent with the place plans developed for those areas.

“It is important we keep investing in green infrastructure and facilities in our city centre, including encouraging active travel, creating enjoyable community spaces to spend time in, and fostering economic and business development across our city precinct.

“Together we will continue to revitalise our city precinct’s public environment, benefitting the whole community now and into the future.”

Akuna Street has now reopened with unrestricted vehicle access in both directions.

- Statement ends -

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