BACKGROUND

The City are renewing the footpath along the Pakington Street shopping precinct as part of our ongoing commitment to providing safe, accessible, and functional public spaces.

Although this project forms part of our regular asset renewal program, it also directly responds to community feedback and the high number of maintenance requests we have received regarding the deteriorating condition of the existing footpath.

The current footpath, constructed with bricks and pavers more than 30 years ago, is now showing significant signs of wear. Sections are affected by tree roots, grading issues, and slippery surfaces.

To address these issues, we propose removing the existing brick paving and replacing it with an asphalt surface. The design will include brick edging to divide the footpath into three-metre by three-metre sections. This approach will deliver a durable, practical, and visually consistent footpath that suits the shopping precinct.

This method also allows individual sections to be replaced more easily if they are damaged by tree roots or utility works, without compromising the overall appearance. Asphalt surfaces can be reopened to the public within a few hours of installation, helping to minimise disruption for businesses and pedestrians.

Once the construction schedule is finalised, we will notify all affected stakeholders in advance. Temporary footpath closures and short-term road detours may be required; however, works will be staged and prioritised in high-traffic areas to reduce inconvenience.

The project will be funded through the Asset Renewal Program. Works are scheduled for Mid 2026 and will be delivered in three stages — Area A, Area B, and Area C (as shown below)— with each section completed before moving to the next. Further consultation with local traders will take place before construction begins.

Ahead of the works, on-site signage will be installed to inform the community about the nature of the project, staging, and expected duration.

Proposed sections include:

• Between Isabella Street and Britannia Street (including the brick section within Isabella Street)
• Between Waratah Street and Lawton Avenue
• Between Hope Street and Autumn Street

This project is being delivered under the Asset Renewal framework, which ensures that assets continue to meet community needs. Key objectives include:

• Replacing assets to maintain safe conditions
• Addressing rising maintenance and management costs
• Extending the operational life of the asset
• Preserving core functionality without necessarily aligning with broader urban design framework upgrades.

This work is being delivered outside of the Pakington Street Urban Design Framework (UDF) as part of Council’s footpath renewal program. It will also ensure the footpath remains safe and accessible until the UDF project is completed in the future.

We recognise that Pakington Street is not just a shopping precinct, but a vibrant community hub where local traders play a vital role. That’s why we are committed to working in partnership with you throughout this project.

Our goal is to deliver a safer, more accessible footpath while minimising disruption to your business. By engaging with traders early and often, we aim to make sure the works are planned and delivered in a way that balances construction needs with your day-to-day operations.

Together, we want this project to be a win for both the community and local businesses—improving safety and amenity for your customers while supporting the continued success of Pakington Street as a thriving destination.