Something new is brewing on Collins Street – and it is not just your morning coffee.
A two-year trial has officially launched to reimagine one of Hobart’s key city streets as a more vibrant, welcoming and people-friendly place.
Transforming Collins Street is a tactical project delivered by the City of Hobart, introducing a range of changes between Molle and Murray streets.
The centrepiece of the trial is a new streetside dining deck near the Harrington Street corner – serving up fresh air, shared tables and front row seats to city life.
Directly opposite seven popular eateries, it is designed as a welcoming space where anyone can enjoy a takeaway sandwich, a steaming bowl of ramen, or simply relax with a friend and a flat white.
David Painter, owner of Sush, said the new space was already creating a buzz among local traders.
“Some chairs and tables and a bit of green is just perfect for us,” Mr Painter said.
“We’re really grateful to the people and the City for improving the vitality around here - suddenly it’s a vibrant and dynamic area.”
The trial also features a zebra crossing near Victoria Street and separated bike lanes between Molle and Harrington streets.
These additions help connect the CBD to the popular Hobart Rivulet path, with the aim of making it safer and more appealing for people to swap short car trips for bike rides.
Councillor Ryan Posselt said the trial was about supporting local business, improving safety and encouraging more people to enjoy what the street has to offer.
“At its heart is a vision of creating a desirable place to visit in the city centre,” Cr Posselt said.
“Making the city more walkable, bike-friendly and inviting is good for locals, good for business and good for Hobart.”
The project delivers on a key action from the Hobart Transport Strategy, which focuses on making the city more walkable, rideable and connected.
As a genuine trial, the project is designed to test ideas, gather feedback and adapt over time.
An initial round of engagement in March showed that 68 per cent of street users felt positive about the direction of the project.
The second round will be held in July, giving the community a chance to share how the changes are working in practice.