Locals are being invited to have their say regarding plans to transform a part of Knox Street, Double Bay into a permanent pedestrian plaza.
Read: New Public Plaza to Open on Knox Street, Double Bay
A short survey will run until Wednesday, 23 February 2022 to ask residents for their opinions about the released concept designs for the project.
In September 2021, Woollahra Council held an initial consultation, which revealed that 91 per cent of respondents prefer to see outdoor dining in this space whilst 86 per cent would like to see the space have a ‘spacious and leafy’ feel.
Following a consultation with the community, Council designated architects from Aspect Studios to come up with architectural plans for the site.
The council is seeking to pedestrianise a section of Knox Street (between the Bay Street intersection and Goldman Lane), adding new lighting, plantings, public art and seating for the community.
“The new plaza will provide extra space for people to gather, rest and relax in a leafy and welcoming environment. It will also create potential for new events, markets, activations and outdoor dining experiences in an already well-loved and inviting part of Double Bay,” Woollahra Council stated.
The proposed Knox Street pedestrian plaza is part of the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program and estimated to cost around $4.75 million. If approved, Council will start construction in mid 2022 and will open the plaza by January 2023.
Read: Melbourne’s Favourite Bakery Opening New Location In Double Bay
Mixed Reactions
Whilst the plans have received many positive responses from locals living nearby, there are a few residents who oppose the new pedestrianised public plaza.
A few business owners from Knox St and residents from Cosmo Centre hope the council will reconsider their plans and tweak certain aspects of the proposal.
Locals wanted to see street parking retained but they also want to widen pedestrian paths by reducing traffic lanes from three to one. There are also a few who suggested temporary bollards which could be erected to close the street during events.
