The ACT government has given a first public look at its plans for the next steps in revitalising Dickson shops.
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They include better paving, more greenery and improved pedestrian connections. The City Renewal Authority said the changes would encourage more outdoor dining, small scale markets and other events as well as areas for young people.
The aim of the upgrades was to meet the needs of a growing population, draw in visitors, and support 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," the agency said.
The plan includes stormwater and paving upgrades, preservation of mature trees in elevated planters, better seating and widening the pedestrian link from Cowper Street to the post office.
It also suggests that decluttering Taglietti Square and other courtyards would create a "more spacious, accessible, and adaptable area for hosting small events and activities".
"The proposal draws on cues from the Dickson Heritage Library, designed by Enrico Taglietti, ensuring the proposed landscape design integrates seamlessly with this iconic building and its immediate context," the plan said.
Under the plan, Taglietti Square would be better connected to the Dickson Pool. That links would have seating, bicycle parking and more trees.
City Renewal Authority chief executive Malcolm Snow said the plan has been carefully designed to improve the quality of the public environment and strengthen 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," he said.
In previous feedback, members of the community raised concerns about safety, including potential trip hazards, poor lighting and criminal behaviour, dated infrastructure and heavy rain causing courtyards to become flooded.
They also wanted more bike parking facilities and public art.
The proposed designs can be viewed online or attend a drop-in sessions outside Dickson Library on April 4 and 13.
Canberrans can have their say on the plan during public consultation, which will run from March 12 to April 23.
Construction is scheduled for 2025.
