An estimated 50 percent population increase over the next ten years, 2,500 new residential allotments in five years and a brand new shopping precinct in two years – not many councils in Australia could envisage such an aggressive growth phase as what is likely to occur in Palmerston.
Palmerston has long been one of Australia’s fastest growing cities, having grown to 30,000 residents over the 30 years since the first house was built. With the city tipped to continue rapid growth, Council has undertaken a proactive plan to transform the municipality into a thriving regional capital, catering for the predicated population boom.
In 2012, Council adopted an innovative master plan for the CBD, designed to propel the city’s vision forward, beyond 2020.
A key component of the plan is the development of a diverse mix of spaces, with planning underway to commence the initial stages of implementation.
Stage 1 will see Council undertake an ambitious plan to create a vibrant main street running through the heart of the city, in addition to developing the city’s public square.
A study conducted during the development of the City’s master plan identified the lack of a structured CBD, with the redevelopment of The Boulevard set to address this issue and create a traditional main street.
‘The Boulevard’ will be designed to be both vehicle and pedestrian friendly, while also creating opportunities for new restaurants, hotels, cafes, retailers, commercial space and residential apartments.
The transformation of Goyder Square, in the heart of the city, will result in the creation of an expansive open space – a vibrant meeting place for residents, and a tailor made space for community events.
Goyder Square is bordered by the city’s only public library and caters for many of Palmerston’s major dry season events – every Friday night it hosts the popular Palmerston Markets, while the city’s festival is also centered on the major public space. It is envisaged the removal of Goyder Hill and its connection to the city’s water tower will enhance the venue’s capability for holding the existing markets, creating new infrastructure for stall holders, and green space for residents.
Throughout March and April 2013, the City of Palmerston embarked on an extensive consultation process with the wider community and key CBD stakeholders regarding the impact of the project. Assisted by Michels Warren Munday, Council used a variety of consultation tools ranging from business meetings to public information sessions and shopping centre displays. Local residents have expressed a need for the expansion of Goyder Square, while many local business owners are enthused by new possibilities.
It is anticipated the Stage 1 redevelopment of Goyder Square will be completed in time for the start of the Northern Territory’s dry season and Palmerston Markets in April 2014.
