Tenders have closed for the renewal of Market Lane outside the Library and Councillors will now consider which one of six tenders will be successful in reshaping this much used public space. The fire stairs will be removed to free up some space. A Green wall has already been installed on a small section of the Whistler St carpark next to the entry of the Manly Library as an indicator of what might come later. According to Council this installation is designed to enhance the laneway by introducing vibrant, living greenery and improving the overall streetscape. The green wall includes an automatic irrigation system and will be subject to regular maintenance to ensure its ongoing health and presentation. The budget for this project is currently unknown, but it’s part of the Manly Place Plan and well overdue.

Three of the six companies responding to the Tender are local, with offices in the vicinity, so it will be interesting to see how they respond to the brief, particularly given the heritage items located in the place, the 1998 Bicentennial Bollards and the named bricks layed in concentric circles in the courtyard.