Sydney’s Chinatown is thriving. The latest news says pedestrians will have priority, laneways will be revitalised and more opportunities available for markets and festivals as part of the City’s proposal to transform the public space.

“Chinatown is a pivotal part of Sydney’s role as a global city, offering a vibrant, culturally diverse, active and lively area with a rich history,” said Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP.

Personally, I haven’t seen any city outside Asia promoting its Chinatown as much as Sydney although for a real mix of authentic Asian flavours, you are more likely to find in Sydney’s western suburbs. Having travelled to for example San Francisco, a city partially famed for its huge Chinese population, I was somewhat disappointed by the lack of vibrancy and young people roaming the streets of their Chinatown. Yes, it has a lot of history and younger generation has moved out but it doesn’t seem to have developed with the times and looks like it is almost deteriorating with their ageing residents.

Following extensive discussion with residents, businesses and visitors, the draft of Chinatown Public Domain Plan will be considered by Council on 31 May. If endorsed, it will be placed on public exhibition with the community invited to comment on the project. In the meantime, have a peek at some of the artist impressions and concepts.

The Plan outlines 10 individual street transformation projects as well as a range of precinct-wide upgrades including new street trees, decorative lighting, custom-made street furniture, stormwater reuse facilities and public art projects.

Additionally, construction work on three more laneways – Little Hay Street, Factory Street and Kimber Lane – will start in early 2011. These three streets will be transformed into pedestrian-friendly spaces with wider footpaths, new street furniture, bike parking and unique lighting. Well, with any council decisions, guess we will have to wait and see if they take action.

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