Young Street Plaza in Neutral Bay, once a lively pop-up space for locals, has sat in limbo for more than three years—its long-promised upgrade now sparking fresh frustration as council finally sets a timeline for partial reopening.
A Plaza in Pause
Young Street Plaza was closed to traffic in late 2020 for a short-term trial to test its use as a pedestrian space. It soon became a well-used spot with seating, greenery and pop-up events. But the temporary setup dragged on for years, and with little upkeep or clear updates, the space gradually declined.
In October 2024, North Sydney Council agreed to partially reopen Young Street to one-way traffic, while upgrading the rest into a permanent plaza. Work is set to begin mid-2025 and finish by year’s end.
The Original Idea That Inspired Locals
ASPECT Studios designed the temporary plaza with a people-first, low-cost approach, using playful seating and native-inspired graphics to liven up Neutral Bay. At first, it worked, drawing events, meet-ups and steady foot traffic.
Over time, with no upgrades or clear plans, the plaza lost momentum. Locals raised concerns about its worn-out state and questioned why places like Lane Cove had progressed while Young Street stalled.
Community Feels Left in the Dark
Despite pop-ups and online consultations, some residents feel left out due to patchy updates. Local businesses also worry about foot traffic and vague timelines, with many unsure if the plaza will ever fulfil its original goal.
What’s Next for the Plaza
The final plan includes new trees, benches, kids’ play areas and safer walkways, using materials that match North Sydney’s design standards. Funded by Transport for NSW, the upgrade stems from a 2018 deal linked to the B-Line bus route.
The design strikes a balance, keeping part of the street for traffic while upgrading the plaza. Locals were invited to give feedback during consultations in May and June 2024.
Despite progress, delays have worn thin. Locals want action, not more plans, and are watching to see if the project finally turns into real change.
Published 17-April-2025