Albury City Councillors have voted to retain a CBD parklet on a semi-permanent basis, following a two-year trial aimed at enhancing street-level activity and social amenity in the city centre.
Installed in mid-2022 at 465 Dean Street, the parklet transformed three car spaces into an architecturally designed space for pedestrians to stop, sit and connect. The initiative formed part of a broader effort to revitalise the CBD in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The trial was made possible through a $120,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces program.
Mayor, Kevin Mack said the parklet remains a useful way to introduce greenery and public seating into the heart of the city.
“It’s clear the space has added value by encouraging people to stop and spend time in Dean Street,” he said.
“Council will invest in its upkeep to ensure the feature is an inviting and well-presented part of the streetscape.”
Since opening in July 2022, more than 135,000 pedestrian movements have been recorded at the site. The cost of maintaining the parklet, including timber refinishing, plant replacement and surface cleaning, is expected to be around $10,000 per year.
A survey of 20 neighbouring businesses conducted in May 2025 revealed 60% supported the parklet remaining in its current location, citing benefits to street vibrancy, while 35% expressed concerns around parking and ongoing maintenance.
The timber elements are scheduled for refinishing in the coming months to improve appearance and durability. Originally conceived in partnership with Albury Business Connect and local property owners, the 465 Dean Street location was chosen based on strong local business support and optimal foot traffic conditions.
Council officers will investigate a more permanent option for on-street activation with a report to be provided back to Councillors within six months.
