Unlocking space for people in a corner of Circular Quay

Loftus Street outside Customs House will soon be transformed with extra space for outdoor dining, trading and markets as part of a push to improve Sydney’s premier gateway Circular Quay.

The City of Sydney has appointed a design and construction company to start the work between Customs House and Jessie Street Gardens, with building to start mid next year.

The $8m upgrade will create an extra 1,200 square metres of accessible footpaths and public space for people walking, with 50 trees to be planted in the area.

Alfred Street to Reiby Place, already a quiet no-through road, will be closed from 11am to midnight, while still allowing access for services and deliveries for businesses outside these times.

“The northern CBD precinct is transforming rapidly, with commercial and residential development as well as major State Government infrastructure, including two Metro stops,” Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, said.

“Increased residential and employment floor space and pedestrian numbers puts increased demand on the public domain, so we’re accelerating our plans to create a more connected and walkable city, with increased greenery and great new public spaces.

“Loftus Street is an important connection between the city north and Circular Quay. With less through traffic and bus use due to the introduction of light rail, we have a fantastic opportunity to create more space for people to spill out from neighbouring buildings for coffee, lunch or events.

“With Circular Quay set for a major transformation, we’re doing our bit with smart management and upgrades to the surrounding streets, laneways and civic areas.

“You only need look at the work we have done on George Street to see what’s possible. We are committed to transforming Sydney into a greener, safer, calmer city, where communities can come together and our streets are destinations, rather than simply a means of transiting from one place to another."

The City of Sydney consulted the public on the concept in 2022.

An upgrade of Reiby Place will be considered once private developments in Pitt Street are complete and Transport for NSW approves the work.

The upgrade is part of the City north public domain plan.

Visit meetings.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?AIId=16104 to find out more about the upgrade of Loftus Street.

For media enquiries contact Roxanne Macara. Phone 0482 530 091 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Clover Moore AO, Lord Mayor of Sydney contact Paul Mackay. Phone 0436 816 604 or email [email protected].