Entertainment
18 June, 2021
Dining Central
THE much-anticipated opening of the revamped Cairns Esplanade Dining Precinct is planned for later this month.
The $28million total overhaul of the Esplanade features integrated dining and green space areas, complete with new pavers and contemporary awnings plus wider footpaths to improve pedestrian traffic flow.
A key design feature included the removal of car parking spots along the southern end of the Esplanade to open the area for pedestrians and sidewalk dining. Traffic flow has been restricted between Aplin and Shields Streets, allowing the dining area and spaces to flow seamlessly into the Esplanade.
The upgrade also includes a revamp of the Lagoon Plaza area and the eastern part of Shields Street, which features an eye-catching checkerboard paving pattern and a distinct ‘wave’ lawn at the Shields Street and Esplanade intersection.
A striking feature of the redevelopment is a 5.5metre high vertical tropical garden with over 700 plants.
The redevelopment has created a modern, clean and very lush tropical outdoor dining space allowing tourists and local to enjoy year-round Al fresco dining in one of the best cosmopolitan cities in regional Australia.
The official opening for the redevelopment will happen Sunday June 27. Multi award winning Cairns-born recording artist Christina Anu will headline an all-day party featuring local entertainers, street markets, a live art gallery and a special kid’s zone.
