Two parklets on Hampden Road in Nedlands are set to stay put after City of Perth Commissioners approved continued installation following a successful trial period.
The parklets were the first ever within the City of Perth and aimed to increase vibrancy, support local business and foster community engagement by offering additional outdoor seating, a free community library and designated dog area. There were also free music performances on Fridays throughout May.
To measure the success of the parklets, foot traffic data was captured and an online survey was conducted to evaluate public and trader perceptions.
The survey found 89 per cent of participants enjoyed having the parklets on Hampden Road and traders were overall supportive of the initiative with 67 per cent agreeing or strongly agreeing that the parklets increased visitation to Hampden Road.
Feedback also indicated local community members and businesses would like to see the parklets stay in place.
The foot traffic data showed a steady increase in local footfall activity throughout the trial with a 35 per cent average increase in footfall on Thursdays and 20 per cent average increase on Fridays.
"The positive results from the trial indicate the parklets have brought more people to the area and encouraged them to linger longer which, in turn, has increased exposure for local business," City of Perth Chair Commissioner Eric Lumsden said.
"This highlights the importance of street level activation and the City will work to ensure these parklets continue to bring more vibrancy into the community and support local business."
As a result of the successful trial, the City of Perth has now received requests for additional parklets to be delivered in East Perth and West Perth.
The modular nature of the parklets means they can be removed at any time in the future should local circumstances and priorities change.
