Image: Devonport City Council
Devonport’s Rooke Street Mall won’t be re-opened to vehicular traffic if a report to be tabled at Monday night’s Devonport City Council meeting for April is adopted.
The report recommends the council maintain the mall as a pedestrian only zone for the foreseeable future and work to enhance it as a vibrant, people-friendly city centre.
It follows extensive consultation with local businesses and the wider community, which it says reflected strong public support for the mall to remain in its vital role as a central hub for retail and community life.
The report says retaining the mall also aligns with the Living City Master Plan’s vision to enhance walkability, connectivity, and the unique character of the CBD.
It also recommends a 12-month trial of enhanced landscaping in select locations, creating greener, more welcoming areas designed to encourage visitors to relax and enjoy the space.
The report says this will be achieved by introducing two temporary ‘popup’ structures, offering exciting new opportunities for local businesses and community use, with feedback and usage to be carefully monitored throughout the trial period.
