Bringing key locations into the spotlight in Sydney's iconic bayside village

A Woollahra Council committee has recommended pushing ahead with priority lighting projects but put more expensive plans for lanterns and other fancy lighting on the backburner.

Uplighting on the ferry terminal, the 18 Footers Club facade, Marathon Rd and Steyne Park would highlight the Double Bay wharf as a major gateway to the prestigious suburb.

Luke Redmond, general manager of 18 Footers, said the long-awaited plans would make Double Bay more welcoming and improve safety for those walking into the centre.

“The wharf is a natural entrance to Double Bay, which has been under-utilised,” said Mr Redmond.

Woollahra Cr and Double Bay Chamber of Commerce chair Katherine O’Regan said the council would also provide vertical uplighting to private buildings such as the Cosmopolitan Shopping Centre, which would illuminate Short, Bay and Knox Sts where night-life is focused.

Lighting would be reviewed in Kiaora Lane to enhance the textures and layers of artwork on the walls.

“The idea is to create a warm, soft and relaxed ambience in Double Bay to brighten up the area but keep it stylish and sophisticated,” said Ms O’Regan.

“It’s not about having the bright lights of the city in Double Bay — that won’t work.”

Trees and the footpath, playground, war memorial and furniture would be illuminated to encourage people to sit in Steyne Park at night.

New South Head Rd would be highlighted as a gateway to Double Bay through lightning on the Manning Rd and Coopers Corners.

The prioritised projects are estimated to cost $360,000, which has already been budgeted for.

Staff have been asked to prepare a report on options and costs for pricey lantern and suspended lighting on Konx Lane and the gateways to New South Head Rd.

Staff had recommended holding off on these projects in favour of “easier, quicker and cheaper results”.

Ms O’Regan said the lighting strategy to “reinvigorate and reactivate” the suburb had been on the cards since 2014.

“It’s not about managing perceived issues of anti-social behaviour.”

Source: The Daily Telegraph

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