Devonport City Council is moving forward with the next phase of its long-term LIVING CITY transformation. The latest strategy focuses on unlocking two significant land parcels in the heart of the CBD to create new commercial and residential opportunities. Dubbed the Formby Road Urban Renewal Study, the plan aims to convert current vehicle-dominated “back-of-house” areas into a vibrant, people-focused precinct.

The proposal identifies two specific sites for private investment, known as Parcel A and Parcel B. These sites connect the Rooke Street Mall, Stewart and Best Streets, and Formby Road. According to council capacity analysis, Parcel A could support between 5,500 and 6,500 square metres of gross floor area, featuring at least four levels of office and commercial space above basement parking. Parcel B is earmarked for 6,000 to 7,000 square metres, designed for high-end residential apartments sitting above two to three levels of public parking.

Mayor of Devonport Cr Alison Jarman said this next stage of LIVING CITY builds directly on the strategy that has shaped Devonport since 2013. She added: “Over more than a decade, LIVING CITY has delivered the paranaple centre, transformed our waterfront, and helped drive private-sector momentum across the CBD. Releasing this plan for what is really the traditional heart of our CBD is the next logical step in creating a connected, activated and future focused city centre.”

A key feature of the renewal is a new urban plaza intended to serve as a social meeting space for residents and visitors. The council aims to improve pedestrian networks and strengthen the link between the city centre and the Mersey River. By introducing new inner-city residents and office workers, the council expects local retailers to see a significant increase in daily foot traffic.

Mayor Jarman noted: “With new residential apartments and office space, the whole vibrancy of the area will change, from what is currently a fairly tired back-of-house carparking area into an attractive space with new public amenities and direct links through the Arcades to the existing shopping areas.” She further stated: “With uninterrupted views to the mouth of the Mersey River, the site provides one of the few opportunities for high end CBD apartments with waterfront views. I’ve got no doubt they will attract a lot of interest, particularly given the growing demand for real estate in the region.”

Council officers will now begin engaging with local business operators and property owners to gather feedback on the precinct analysis. While the council has outlined the vision, it is seeking private developers to fund and deliver the actual construction of the two parcels.