Tourist strip to light up

THE light could soon be shining on Port Douglas’ famous tourist strip with the introduction of tree and street lighting.

Plans to give Macrossan St a facelift appear imminent, with funding being prepared to transform the centre into a night-friendly pedestrian thoroughfare.

Douglas Chamber of Commerce president Liz Ross said discussions had taken place with Douglas Shire Council, which was keen on the concept.

The Cairns Esplanade and Noosa’s Hastings St are two recent examples of well placed lighting bringing towns to life after dark.

“Lighting up Macrossan St is something that would look stunning,” Ms Ross said.

“The lights along the esplanade in Cairns that follow the tree shape and its branches – I remember seeing it for the first time and just thinking how fantastic it looked.

“It’s sad we haven’t had anything like that in Port. It’s a really good idea.”

The Port strip is expected to have lights installed in the trees lining the centre of the street, along with the side footpaths and gardens.

Mayor Julia Leu said improved street lighting was a popular response from a recent council survey focused on Macrossan St.

It comes as the council announced it would be revamping all the garden beds starting at the esplanade end of town.

“More colourful garden beds, more trees and improved footpaths were some key improvements requested through the Macrossan St survey,” Cr Leu said.

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