Changes to bus routes make a promenade possible
Recent changes to bus routes have shifted a large number of buses from Castlereagh Street to Elizabeth Street. The reduced bus traffic creates an opportunity to make Castlereagh Street a low-traffic promenade, with greater space for people to walk, ride and dine.
A new cycleway connection
A 2-way cycleway running between King and Liverpool streets will fill a missing link in the cycleway network. The separated cycleway will connect to the new King Street cycleway in the north and the Liverpool and Castlereagh bike lanes in the south.
The existing cycleway on Castlereagh Street south sees around 4,000 bike trips a week. It is expected this number will more than double when the Castlereagh Street cycleway is extended.
More footpath space and a nicer environment for people walking
People walking account for three-quarters of trips on Castlereagh Street. Pedestrian activity is set to grow with the opening of the Pitt Street Metro station in 2024, which will have an exit on Castlereagh Street.
Our proposed changes to Castlereagh Street will almost double footpath space, open up more opportunities for outdoor dining and increase tree canopy. The separated cycleway will also create a buffer between people walking on the footpath and vehicle traffic.
Vehicle access maintained
The new cycleway was designed in consultation with Fire and Rescue NSW to ensure uninterrupted access for vehicles at the City of Sydney fire station.
A peak hour bus lane will also remain, along with accessible loading zones on the eastern side of Castlereagh Street and a designated drop-off/pick-up point for the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel.
Have your say
You’re invited to provide your feedback on our proposed design for Castlereagh Street. Consultation is open until 22 April 2022.
Published 11 April 2022, updated 31 October 2024
