City’s heart beating

Cityprom executive officer Vanessa Cahoon said the laneway features a range of artworks designed to have something for everyone. “The idea is to provide an area for visitors to the Quadrant where they can relax, dine or just enjoy a coffee whilst the major works are being completed,” she said.

Launceston artist Al Howard relished the chance to create artwork on such a large scale in a public place.

“It was a good opportunity for me to work with some street artists from Melbourne who have installations all over the world,” he said.

Ms Cahoon said a successful launch party held last Friday attracted more than 120 people.

“There’s a lot of interest in having licensed night events in the area and the next one is coming up on the 10^th of June,” she said. Until the end of the month visitors can win a $100 voucher by browsing the lane, choosing their favorite artwork and filling out an entry at Holy Guacamole.

The transformation was part of the Launceston City Heart Project, which received a national commendation on Thursday night.

The first major public work at the Quadrant mall is due to be completed by August, and involves the laying of more than 12,100 pavers, new bike racks, lighting, street furniture and more greenery.

Launceston Mayor Albert Van Zetten said it was a delight that the consultation phase of the project had received an award. 

"The Launceston City Heart Project promises to be a game-changer for our city and for that to work we needed to know what Northern Tasmania envisioned as the future for their CBD," he said.

"The City of Launceston undertook the largest public consultation program ever seen in Tasmania's local government sector.. [and it] allowed us to develop a comprehensive plan for the city's public spaces and to present a raft of creative ideas on how to improve our city and ensure it remains the cultural, social and economic hub of the region.”