Ducks Nuts, BCC Cinema to be transformed under approved plans

Plans to revitalise a key component of Darwin’s CBD have been approved. See what the restored site would look like.

The old Ducks Nuts site is set to be revitalised under new approved plans. Photograph: Che Chorley

Plans to revitalise one of Darwin CBD’s quiet areas have been given the green light, restoring the site to its former hustle and bustle.

The old Ducks Nuts and BCC Cinemas sites on Mitchell St will be given new life after the Development Consent Authority approved the necessary permits.

The cinema site’s plans include an indoor function room, leisure and recreation facilities and a band room for live music.

Proposed renovations at the old Ducks Nuts site on Mitchell Street Darwin.

The proposal was lodged by town planners Cunnington Rosse on behalf of the Coleman family, and included plans to extend Ducks Nuts’ liquor license and transform the old cinema into a separate licensed venue.

The application stated the plans incorporated innovative building design, site layout and landscaping that responds to and encourages pleasant microclimates, including through breeze capture and shading.

“An increase in activity, together with the proposed alterations to the entrance and alfresco areas enable an improved interaction between the public and private realms,” the application said.

New facades will be built for the two sites under the development plan.

A new accommodation centre is also set to spring up on Shepherd St.

Featuring 72 rooms in an eight storey block, the building will home international students.

Each room will contain a bed, bathroom, wardrobe, dinette, kitchenette, desk, and a balcony.

A new accommodation centre for international students will be built on Shepherd St.

Infrastructure, Planning, and Logistics Minister Eva Lawler said it was “positive” to see private investor’s strong interest in Darwin CBD.

These projects create local jobs and flow on benefits for Territorians and Territory businesses,” she said.

“We are making the Territory the best place in the country to do business.”

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the Territory was “taking off” with the construction industry on the rise.

“We are home to some of the most unique opportunities when it comes to work, business and investment, and we are seeing this reflected in our current construction projects,” she said.

“The approvals of these two new developments shows our economy is on the right track – we will continue to do everything we can to make the Territory the best destination to live and work.”