The parklet trial is all about doing something new to make George Street even better.

Parklets can bring vibrancy and foot traffic to an area, which often benefits nearby businesses. Studies from cities that have trialled parklets show that when thoughtfully implemented, they boost local commerce by creating more inviting spaces for people to gather, explore, and stay longer.

The parklet trial aligns with the aims of Council's Urban Greening Strategy, Transport Strategy and recently endorsed City Heart Place Plan.

George Street was chosen for the trial for a number of reasons, including:

• It already has a variety of food and drink spots close together.
• The City Place Plan identifies George Street as the City Heart's 'Eat Street'.
• It will support the Theatre District and boost evening activities.
• The Transport Strategy nominates George Street for future reduction in lanes.
• The proposed changes to the roads will reduce traffic volume on George Street, making it a more appealing place to spend time.

Dining decks, also known as parklets, temporarily repurpose part of the road corridor, providing an outdoor dining space for hospitality businesses.

They help create a more vibrant public space, encourage slower traffic, and invite people to spend more time in the area. An example of this can be seen in the parklet currently outside Tinka on St Johns Street.

There are nine parklets in the trial and each parklet is the size of a parking space. However, the existing parking spaces will be reconfigured so that only six spaces will be used.

Not at all! The City of Launceston Transport Strategy envisions a future George Street similar to the section of Brisbane Street between St John Street and George Street (sometimes called the Avenue).

It’s true that parklets often benefit hospitality businesses, as they create spaces that enhance outdoor dining and attract foot traffic. However, their value extends beyond one sector. By making streets more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly, parklets can increase overall activity in an area, which benefits all businesses, not just hospitality.

However, for businesses that rely on appointments, like salons, healthcare providers, or consultancies, we’re sensitive to your need for accessible parking.

One of the reasons that George Street has been selected for the trial is its proximity to off-street car parks, such as Paterson West Carpark, which has 209 spaces (including 11 accessible spaces) and Yorktown Square CarPark, which has 33 spaces. A total of 377 parking spaces (including 14 accessible spaces) are located within a 125m radius of the trial area. Council staff are reviewing current usage, timing, and availability of these spaces and will provide further details where this may assist businesses and customers to plan their trips.

We’re also gathering data throughout the trial to assess its impact. Your feedback will be critical in deciding the long-term approach. In the meantime, think of parklets as an opportunity to attract new customers and encourage existing ones to return, which could bring in more business overall.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns as we go forward with the trial.

The loading zone on the east side of George Street will be retained and moved slightly south (towards the Mission Shop).

The current loading zone on the west side of the street is non-compliant and will be repurposed as a parklet during the trial. Council is exploring options to improve loading access for businesses on the west side of the street.

In the meantime, parking inspectors will be asked to give extra attention to the two ten-minute parking spaces on the west side to ensure these turn over as regulated.

The dining decks will slightly reduce on-street parking, but nearby options include Paterson Street East Car Park (209 spaces) and Yorktown Square Car Park (33 spaces).

To view a map of the area and parking options, click here.

The parklets are temporary structures which will be placed onto the surface of the roadway.

Initially they will be in place for a three-month trial period (from mid-December 2024 to mid-March 2025).

Depending on the results of the trial some participants may apply for a licence to use the parklet on an ongoing basis.

Following the trial's conclusion in March 2025, the Council plans to incorporate dining decks/parklets into the on-street dining permit system.

here.

The trial will run from December 2024 until March 2025.

The parklets will be put in place during the week of December 9. Works will be undertaken after hours to minimise disruption to businesses.

Feedback from participating businesses, nearby businesses and community will be reviewed to guide any adjustments and determine next steps.

Additional information and data, such as the utilisation of dining decks and traffic monitoring, will also be taken into account.

Depending on the results of the trial some participants may apply for a licence to use the parklet on an ongoing basis.