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Roe Street Master Plan
The City of Perth released the draft Roe Street Master Plan for public comment in August 2011. A number of submissions were received and have been assessed. A report has been prepared for Council outlining the way forward to progress the master plan.
Background
The City of Perth prepared the Roe Street Master Plan to ensure the successful future development of Roe Street.
With the development of the Perth City Link and the sinking of the Fremantle railway line the CBD and Northbridge will be reconnected meaning Roe Street will look and function significantly differently to its current state. As well as serving as an east-west link in the road network, it will accommodate an increase in pedestrian movement and activity.
Currently, Roe Street lacks the strong character expected of a major city street. The absence of street trees and street furniture provides poor public amenity and makes the street appear insignificant and unattractive. This is also reflected in the kerbing and paving which is inconsistent, outdated and in poor condition. The complete lack of activity and built form on the railway side has contributed to the neglect of Roe Street over the years and its perception as simply a route through the city. Car parks, vacant buildings and offices do little to contribute to a sense of vibrancy or being in the city centre. Buildings on the north side that have good interaction with the street at ground level are few and far apart.
A future Roe Street will feature new paving and granite kerbs; new street furniture; and London Plane Trees. The overall design for Roe Street as outlined in the master plan is significantly robust to accommodate various transport needs into the future. In particular, the existing cycle path will be retained and better integrated within the street. Once complete, the enhancements to Roe Street will significantly contribute to the success of the Link Project and improving the connections between the City and Northbridge.
Timing
The City is preparing the master plan early to ensure any work undertaken as part of the Perth City Link is in accordance with the master plan. Development as proposed in the master plan will not commence until after the sinking of the railway line. Currently, the work is programmed to commence in early 2014 and be completed by early 2015. However this is dependent on the timing of the railway project and will possibly be influenced by the construction of the proposed underground bus station.
Master plan objectives
The main objectives of the Roe Street Master Plan are:
• To raise the profile of Roe Street towards stimulating economic vitality in the area.
• Improve access and the level of amenity for pedestrians and cyclists, balanced with the needs of traffic and transport.
• Improve the aesthetics and ambience of the street for the increasing number of residents and workers anticipated in the area.
Design principles
The draft master plan has been developed based on the following key design principles:
• improvement of pedestrian safety and amenity;
• the provision of new street furniture, lighting and street tree planting – consistent with city centre urban design treatments;
• the retention of kerbside services such as loading and taxi bays and parking;
• the provision of universal access, ensuring compliance with applicable standards to facilitate access by people with disabilities; and
• environmentally sensitive urban design.
Information
If you would like more information on the master plan or process please contact:
Julie Meehan
Senior Urban Designer
9461 3158
julie.meehan@cityofperth.wa.gov.au