Martin Place, one of the more austere places in Sydney, is set to be transformed into a vibrant dining area, with new outdoor seating and new landscaping.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
For the first time, outdoor dining will be permitted between Pitt and George Streets, site of the Word War I memorial, the Cenotaph.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the council had worked closely with the RSL on the policy to expand outdoor dining to the western end of Martin Place, a move that had been urged by city landowners.
Dining is already permitted under the colonnade of the historic post office building, but tables will now be allowed in the plaza itself.
The RSL is studying the proposals but is generally supportive, provided they don't impact on services held at the cenotaph.
"We want Martin place to be the central point in the city where citizens congregate," RSL state president, Rod White said.
"The city has been very good on consultation. They have assured us there will be no encroachment on the dignity and solemnity of the cenotaph," he said.
Cr Moore said with work about to begin on the light rail, it was the right time to upgrade Martin Place and the streets running into Alfred Street at Circular Quay where the light rail ends.
"Martin Place is Sydney's most popular public plaza with some of Sydney's finest buildings and these changes will make it and the area around the Quay more appealing for the thousands of people who enjoy these busy areas each day," she said.
"We want people to spend time in Martin Place and this scheme, if approved, will bring more trees and landscaping, more seating, and more outdoor dining which has not previously been allowed."
In 2013, a group of property owners in Martin Place approached the council to request improvements to Martin Place. The owners formed the Martin Place Owners Group to work with the council. The council has also sought advice from Gehl Architects and Hassell Architects on the proposal.
Chairwoman of the Martin Place Owners Group, Andrea Roberts, said her members had helped the council work on the plan and were excited about the changes it proposes.
"We would like to see Martin Place become a more enticing environment, one that attracts people day and night, encourages a 24/7 economy and re-enforces it as the civil and civic heart of this city. This plan very much aligns with our vision," Ms Roberts said.
The plan includes separate recommendations for the northern part of the city around Alfred Street and Circular Quay.
"The city is undergoing a period of rapid change. As well as the light rail, the NSW Government is planning to renew Circular Quay and there are many major private developments in the northern part of the city that are underway or in the wings," the Lord Mayor said.
The plans will be placed on exhibition for four weeks and public comments are invited.
