Edward River Council’s pop-up parklets that formed part of the “Energising End Street” activation have found forever homes at new locations.
The parklets were a popular addition to the streetscape in End Street, and one of the temporary initiatives funded by the NSW State Government Department of Planning and Environment’s Streets as Shared Spaces program. The program was designed to foster community connections and economic activity after the challenges of COVID.
At the conclusion of the program, in accordance with its original contract terms, Council advertised for Expressions of Interest to purchase the parklets.
Edward River Council’s Mayor Cr Peta Betts said four applications were received for the three parklets.
“We wanted the parklets to either stay and be useful to businesses in their current location, or be transferred to a space where they will add to the amenity and activity of the business.”
The Deni Boat Club purchased the parklet outside the Exchange Hotel, which was removed and transferred on Thursday morning. They plan to divide the parklet into two outdoor dining areas to provide enhanced outdoor seating and entertaining areas at the Boat Club.
Purtill’s Cruizin Diner has purchased the wooden parklets outside the old Harry Pepper shop for use in their outdoor dining zone near the children’s play area, and these will be transferred in due course.
The Coach House has purchased the parklets that are on the footpath outside their venue, which have become an attractive and eye-catching addition to the street, and these well-used parklets are remaining in place.
Cr Betts said the only unsuccessful applicant was the Edward River Library.
“That was unfortunate for the Library, but the original aim of the State Government funding was to drive connection and economic activity for local business, so we honoured this intent in choosing to send the parklets to commercial locations.”
