Northbridge Is Trialling A Pedestrian-Only James Street

Starting at the end of the month, the heart of Northbridge is set to become a pedestrian-only zone on Friday and Saturday nights.

The closure, scheduled to run for a month trial from October 28, will extend along James Street between Lake and William Streets, transforming the entertainment district into a pedestrian mall.

A combined initiative between the City of Perth, State Government and WA Police, the closure aims at creating a fun, family-friendly and festive atmosphere, as well as to discourage antisocial behaviour.

“This initiative is expected to provide more space for family friendly attractions, more room for local businesses to get creative, and the means for more efficient policing,” Police Minister Paul Papalia said in a statement.

During the closure, extra family-friendly activities and entertainment will be on offer, and businesses can apply for free permits to extend alfresco trading into the street.

Between 5:00PM and 5:00AM (from 4:00PM on October 28), all vehicles will need to be removed from the area, with “No Parking” restrictions commencing at 4:00PM. Taxi and ride shares will be encouraged to use designated ranks just outside the pedestrian zone, including the existing bays on Melbourne Street.

For more details on the closure, head to the City of Perth website.