New upgrades to Canberra’s popular dining strips to increase buyer appeal

Home buyers will have more reason to extend their search towards Braddon and Dickson, with its popular dining and entertainment hubs receiving a significant boost from the ACT government over the next 18 months.

The upgrades are expected to make the “area safer, more accessible and more attractive”.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr announced earlier today that the infrastructure works on Lonsdale Street, Braddon and Woolley Street, Dickson were part of a $13.9 million investment which will see up to 20 construction, design and engineering jobs created.

The first stage of the plan will improve parking and travel options and provide better connections to neighbouring areas and the light rail. 

The designs are based on the Braddon and Dickson Place Plans which the City Renewal Authority completed in 2019. The plans included improved lighting, pedestrian-friendly footpaths and new street furniture.

According to the Braddon Place Plan, there is a need for the suburb to “adapt to long-term liveability, addressing the needs of an evolving population, with a growing number of young families and professionals”.

“It is intended that through this process, Braddon will continue to evolve as a neighbourhood that is loved by people who live, work and visit, retaining its character and growing its distinct place as a destination in Canberra.”

The Dickson Place Plan noted that the suburb was undergoing a drastic change with an increase in “higher-density residential, new commercial office developments and a major light rail interchange”.

“The ‘diverse Dickson’ vision and guiding principles will become increasingly important to maintain the character and desire of Dickson as an inclusive family and cultural destination,” the plan stated.

The City Renewal Authority appointed SMEC and AECOM to head the Braddon and Dickson upgrades, respectively.

“This investment will also provide new public space plans for the broader Dickson and Braddon commercial precincts and the next stage of detailed design and construction in each area,” Mr Barr said.

The upgrades will commence in early 2021 and are expected to be completed in early 2022.

“The City Renewal Authority will work with local businesses and the community to minimise the construction impacts while we improve these areas for the benefit of the entire community,” Mr Barr said.