Could This CBD Get Any Better? Devonport's Vision for Next Steps Revealed

New commercial space, waterfront apartments and public amenities proposed as part of the next stage of Living City

Designed to reshape the vehicle-dominated area near the existing cinema complex into a vibrant and people-focused precinct, with strong connections into existing retail areas, the plan will create quality public space to complement the CBD and broader Living City investments.

Dubbed the Formby Road Urban Renewal Study, the most recent work by Devonport City Council outlines a concept plan to further deliver on the Living City vision, anchored by:

Major new infill mixed-use development, including the potential to support substantial new office and commercial space, along with residential opportunities aligned to the city's long-term growth needs.
A new urban plaza, creating an interface for the new development parcels with key connections into established CBD retail and service precincts, while providing a social meeting space for residents and visitors.
Future activation opportunities through the transformation of existing "back-of-house" areas, improving safety and strengthening wayfinding within the CBD.

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman said the Formby Road Urban Renewal Study was the "next logical step" in the roll-out of Living City.

"With new residential apartments and office space, the whole vibrancy of the area will change, from what is currently a fairly tired back-of-house car parking area into an attractive space with new public amenities and direct links through the arcades to the existing shopping areas," she said.

"CBD retailers will see a real boost in daily activity and importantly public car parking will be retained within the precinct.

"With uninterrupted views to the mouth of the Mersey River, the site provides one of the few opportunities for high-end CBD apartments with waterfront views. I've got no doubt they will attract a lot of interest, particularly given the growing demand for real estate in the region."

With the study being the first step of many, the council is not expecting construction on the site to begin for several years.

Source:

https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/9169689/devonport-cbd-plans-to-include-commercial-building-and-apartments/