Building height changes, more public transport in Kippax group centre draft master plan

Increased building heights and boosting public transport are among the opportunities being explored in the Kippax group centre draft master plan.

Canberrans have until February 5 to provide feedback on the plan’s recommendations, including increasing building heights in the centre to a maximum six storeys, identifying opportunities for retail expansion and improving the centre’s character and sustainability.

Making Hardwick Crescent a more pedestrian-orientated main street and and building a three-storey structured carpark on the road’s northern surface car park are among the possible upgrades.

The plan also encourages greater use of public transport in the area, with new shared paths, bus shelters and cycle facilities proposed.

The document also envisions strengthening the central area of the shops next to the library as a community hub and pedestrian plaza, including the creation of a new community facilities building. 

Activating the eastern side of Kippax Fair and providing opportunities for outdoor dining and recreation overlooking the playing fields have also been explored.

Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said more than 1100 had attended “meet the planner” sessions or shared their views online.

He said community feedback so far had supported a number of recommendations, “particularly in relation to enhancing public spaces, improving connections for pedestrians and cyclists, proposed building heights and providing more day and night-time activity within the centre”.

“There has also been positive support for strengthening the centres role as a major public transport hub for the wider West Belconnen area, as we continue to see the community grow in population.”

Copies of the draft master plan are available for public comment at the Kippax public library or online at www.timetotalk.act.gov.au until February 5.

The feedback will be incorporated in a final master plan due for release later this year.