How to have YourSay

The ACT Government is planning upgrades to Dickson Shops to create a more accessible, modern and welcoming public space for locals and visitors.

We sought your feedback on draft designs for the upgrade of the Dickson Shops courtyards between 12 March and 23 April 2024. Consultation is now closed and we are preparing a summary of what we heard.

This feedback will help us to refine the design before proceeding to construction, which is expected to commence in 2025.

What we are looking at

Informed by the Dickson Place Plan and community feedback since its development, these designs have been thoughtfully crafted to refresh the Dickson Shops precinct while aiming to retain its distinct character and charm.

These upgrades are focused on creating a sustainable public space that encourages people to visit and stay longer, driving social and economic activity in the process.

Some of the key features of the upgrade include:

• improved paving
• enhanced lighting and other safety features
• decluttering of Taglietti Square (library plaza) and other courtyards
• preservation of mature trees in elevated planters
• consideration of existing and new public artworks
• opportunities for incidental play
• improved seating opportunities
• widening the pedestrian link from Cowper Street to the post office
• improved pedestrian connections across Badham Street.

Previous engagement

Building on previous consultation, these upgrades aim to ensure Dickson Shops are safe, well-connected, inviting, family-friendly, and sustainable shopping and community hub.

We will use your views to

Your feedback will help us to identify opportunities to improve the design to best serve this popular shopping destination, and ensure the improvements complement our recent Woolley Street upgrades and other nearby developments.

We invite you to subscribe to the City Renewal Authority newsletter to continue your involvement as the project progresses.