Should it stay or should go – future of Clarke Street Pop-Up Park up
Published on 22 November 2022
As the two year trial period for the temporary Pop-Up Park at the corner of Clarke and Barkly streets in West Footscray comes to an end, it’s time to consider whether we keep it or not.
A welcome addition during lockdowns, the Clarke Street Pop-Up Park offered a safe and inviting outdoor space to connect, and has remained a popular place for residents to meet, play and relax long after restrictions were lifted.
Initially identified in the West Footscray Neighbourhood Plan 2018 as a space that could be adapted for community use, when the opportunity arose to create a new outdoor area here during the pandemic, the local community said ‘yes please’.
Installed at the end of 2020, the Clarke Street Pop-Up Park became the first real central gathering space in Barkly Village. It was established as a casual space where residents could hang out and host events with seating and greenery, in line with their feedback.
Post the pandemic, Council has made other temporary Pop-Up Parks permanent at the request of the community including most notably the installation on Ballarat Road in Yarraville after 3,000 residents asked that it be retained.
Because we know these spaces have been highly-valued by traders and residents alike, with the trial period for the Clarke Street Pop-Up Park now coming to an end – the question for this community now is – should it be removed or should it be made permanent?
Retention would mean the permanent loss of the two car parks and a permanent closure of the host section of roadway.
Vote yes or no to permanency at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ClarkeStreet where, if you want the pop-up retained you can also tell us what elements you want to keep, those you want changed, and what new features you might like to see.
Feedback closes 5pm Sunday 18 December.
Want to speak to us in-person? Head down to the Clarke Street Pop-Up Park to learn more, ask questions and share your thoughts from:
- 4.30-6.30pm, Thursday 8 December
- 10am-12pm, Sunday 11 December
For more information, visit yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ClarkeStreet
Message from the Mayor, Councillor Sarah Carter
There is no doubt these temporary pop-up parks, which have transformed areas traditionally allocated to vehicles into spaces able to be enjoyed by people, have been popular with residents and traders alike. Although, it is also true that not everyone has welcomed them.
That’s why we’re asking the question – should we keep it or not. It is important that we understand the local appetite for retaining the Clarke Street Pop-Up Park before making any decisions on its future.
Head to Your City Your Voice to let us know your thoughts.
Maribyrnong News
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