Business-led activation of Vincent’s public spaces and high streets

Design Feature

Project Type
Public open space / Movement Networks
State
Western Australia
Location
Urban

Empowering businesses to enhance public spaces and promote active, social town centres.


The City of Vincent's Vibrant Public Spaces Policy (VPSP) and Business Enhancement Grants (BEG) empower local businesses to create vibrant, people-friendly streets.
Replacing the Parklet Policy, the VPSP introduced clear design standards and a concierge-style assessment process for parklets, street furniture, and outdoor dining.
Complementing this, the BEG provides matched funding for projects that improve shopfronts, public art, greenery, and alfresco areas.
Since 2022, 28 vibrant public spaces have been established and 51 grants awarded, resulting in more attractive, inclusive, and active neighbourhoods.
Together, they demonstrate how local government can cut red tape and co-create healthy, liveable town centres.
Project Team
City of Vincent's Place Planning team with support from Engineering, Parks, Ranger Services and Building Services teams
Project cost
$100,000pa ($40,000 staff time and $60,000 grants)
Health value
The initiative supports active lifestyles by encouraging walking, bike riding and outdoor dining in comfortable, inviting environments. Shaded seating, parklets and street greenery promote incidental physical activity and provide places for rest, socialising and connection - key contributors to physical and mental wellbeing.
Economic value
The grants and policy reduce business costs and stimulate local investment. Over $220,000 in funding has leveraged more than double that in private contributions, revitalising main streets, increasing foot traffic and helping small businesses thrive through enhanced visibility and street appeal
Social value
By enabling businesses to co-design public spaces, the program builds community ownership and pride. New alfresco areas, murals and shared seating foster everyday social encounters, strengthen local identity and transform once-underused areas into welcoming neighbourhood gathering spots.
Use value
People now spend more time outdoors - lingering at ‘eatlets’, meeting friends at parklets and exploring main streets on foot.
Businesses are more connected with their community and residents benefit from attractive, safe, and accessible places to enjoy daily life.

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