A narrow back lane in Darlinghurst will become a destination in its own right after the City of Sydney approved its refurbishment as part of a plan to revitalise business around Oxford Street.
Foley Street will become a more inviting spot for cafes, restaurants and shops with wider footpaths and a pedestrian-only zone stretching from Crown to Langley streets to accommodate outdoor seating and dining.
Power lines will also be moved underground to boost the visual appeal of the street and a new pedestrian and cycling link will run from Taylor Square to nearby Crown Street to make the area more accessible to foot and bike traffic.
The changes follow on from recent upgrades to the southern part of Foley Street from Oxford Street to Burton Street.
The upgrade is already paying off with two new commercial leases signed with the City and two more in the pipeline.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the Foley Street makeover was part of the City’s plan to support local businesses by creating a vibrant streetscape with more attractive, pedestrian-friendly areas for people to stop and spend time.
“We want to create streets people can enjoy so businesses have greater opportunities for passing trade – this is all about supporting our small and medium sized businesses in what is a pretty difficult economic climate,” the Lord Mayor said.
“This area was one of Sydney’s most vibrant cultural and retail hubs for many years before it fell on lean times. I look forward to seeing these upgrades help add to the growing lively feel of the area and to ensure Oxford Street and its surrounding laneways retain their unique character.”
Stage two of the plans to revitalise the area will include:
- Closing Foley Street to traffic from Crown Street to Langley Street;
- Creating a shared zone for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists from Langley Street to Taylor Square;
- Making Langley Street one-way southbound;
- Extending footpaths along Crown and Palmer Street;
- Moving overhead power lines underground along Foley Street to reduce clutter; and
- Making Foley Street “no stopping” rather than “no parking”.
For more information, contact City of Sydney Senior Media Adviser Catharine Munro.
Phone 0467 810 160 or email cmunro@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Tyron Butson. Phone 0427 044 768 or email tbutson@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au