From a traffic-clogged thoroughfare to a world-class boulevard, George Street has reached the pinnacle of its transformation.

Decades in the making, the final stage of the project to create a fully pedestrianised boulevard stretching 2.5km from Central station to Circular Quay is nearly completed.

If approved, the City of Sydney, with the support of the NSW Government, will complete the final missing link in the landmark renewal project, extending the pedestrian boulevard from Essex Street to Alfred Street by late 2028.

The proposal includes:

– closing the eastern side of George Street to traffic, converting it into a pedestrian space flush with the footpath similar to the central plaza between Bathurst and Hunter streets with seating, trees, lighting and paving up to the light rail tracks

– keeping a vehicle lane on the western side of George Street, with traffic travelling south

– removing the signalised intersections at Essex and George streets, and Alfred and George streets.

Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said the project will realise the City of Sydney’s long-held vision of a people-focused George Street, transforming 39,000 square metres of former road into a greener, safer and more people-friendly environment.

“This is the final stage in what has been one of Sydney’s most significant city-shaping projects,” the Lord Mayor said.

“The transformation of George Street has already changed the way people experience our city. What was once a noisy, polluted traffic jam is now a welcoming boulevard where people can walk, meet, shop, dine and enjoy our city.

“This final section represents a defining moment in Sydney’s evolution as a global city – we’ve created the kind of public space people expect in leading international cities.”

The Lord Mayor said the transformation of George Street has helped unlock significant investment and revitalisation across the city centre, benefiting local businesses, workers and visitors.

Since construction began, the City of Sydney has invested more than $300 million in the pedestrianisation and beautification of George Street, helping attract more than $8 billion of private investment along the corridor.

Businesses along George Street gain from increased foot traffic, improved public spaces and enhanced opportunities for outdoor dining and activation. 

Minister for Transport, the Arts, and Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said: “George Street used to be a smoggy gauntlet, more popular with taxis and buses than human beings. It’s now a vibrant place that attracts shoppers, workers and tourists. 

“The reclaimed outdoor dining space in The Rocks has been a great boost for this historic harbourside precinct and this work will lock in those gains and make the area even more appealing.

“George Street just gets better and better, and we’re looking forward to seeing that transformation reach The Rocks.” 

The concept design, local access plan and environmental factors are open for public comment until 5pm, Monday 26 October.

Community feedback will be reviewed before the final proposal is presented to Council for approval in November.

For more information and to provide feedback visit: sydneyyoursay.com.au

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES