Plan launched to activate Darwin City’s laneways and small streets

The Northern Territory Government, in partnership with the City of Darwin and the Australian Government, has launched Laneways and Small Streets: An action plan for Darwin City.

The action plan aims to transform Darwin City’s laneways and small streets into enjoyable places for locals and entice visitors to stay longer.

It is a commitment from the historic Darwin City Deal between the three levels of government to position Darwin as a vibrant and liveable city.

The Action Plan aims to coordinate existing and future work and investment in several laneways and small streets in the Darwin Central Business District.

Twelve actions have been identified to be delivered jointly by the NT Government and the City of Darwin, working closely with traders, property owners, Larrakia and other organisations as required with a focus on:

• Place-making;

• Activation; and

• Economic enablers that encourage private investment.

To support the Action Plan, the Northern Territory Government has allocated $1.35 million to revitalise Chapel Lane and the nearby easement alongside Mitchell Street between the Hilton Hotel and TIO Building, in collaboration with the City of Darwin.

These initiatives complement existing work by the Northern Territory Government and the City of Darwin to improve amenities, connectivity and safety in laneways and walkways within the city centre including:

• completed $3 million upgrades to Austin Lane and Spain Place improving and activating the areas;

• monthly Austin Lane dry season markets; and

• street art through the annual Darwin Street Art Festival.

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis shared “City of Darwin is proud to continue working with the Federal and Northern Territory Governments to implement The Darwin City Deal. Together we are transforming our City by revitalising the streets and unlocking the potential of Darwin.

“Laneways and small streets are an important part of our city’s character and a $1.3 million investment will make a big difference on Chapel Lane and its connection to Mitchell Street and the mall.

“Our goal is to make Chapel Lane a deliberate detour – not just a sneaky shortcut. We will revitalise the laneway by transforming the current parking lane on Mitchell Street into a pedestrian plaza and connecting this area to Chapel Lane through an improved streetscape with landscaping, public art, and cooling.

“The success of taking these simple steps can already be seen on Austin Lane, where the City Deal has resulted in creating a lively and inviting public space which has led to private investment and economic development for Darwin.”

Locals and visitors are invited to have their say on the Chapel Lane redevelopment project, which aims to encourage movement through the space, enhance the quality of the pedestrian experience, and provide opportunities for improving economic outcomes for surrounding businesses.

To view the Action Plan, visit Transforming Public Spaces