New CBD plan focuses on shared spaces, local businesses

June 25, 2025 10:18 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Adorina Massing.

The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) has shared details about the future of Port Vila’s Central Business District (CBD), which is being redesigned as part of the capital’s earthquake recovery efforts.

Senior Town Planner Manses Fatdal said the new Port Vila development plan was recently approved by the Port Vila City Council (PVCC). It introduces more shared spaces, with a focus on walkability and public access.

“The vision is to see more people walking in the town area. We want to bring life back into the city by making it more accessible and people-friendly,” he said.

The redesign is part of a broader strategy to not only rebuild infrastructure but also support social and economic renewal. The plan aims to create a CBD that supports community wellbeing, encourages business growth, and opens space for youth involvement.

“One of the aims is to keep the CBD as the heart of Port Vila,” Mr. Fatdal said. “We want more youth activities and more local businesses operating in the city centre. This isn’t just about new buildings, but about creating a space that reflects the energy of our people.”

While some development projects are already approved, others are still under consultation and require further planning.

“We’ve been working on many aspects, but we want to make sure the outcomes reflect what the community wants. Public input is important to create a CBD that feels shared by all,” he added.

One of the proposals includes a memorial site where the Billabong building once stood. This site would honour those affected by the earthquake, while including a small commercial feature such as a café. Fatdal said the idea is still under review.

“The vision is to ensure the land is not left unused—to create a space that is respectful and also serves a practical purpose for the community,” he said.

Fatdal also noted his personal commitment to seeing the recovery and redesign completed. “It’s a personal goal to help the CBD come back stronger,” he said.

The plan signals a new direction in urban planning for Vanuatu’s capital—one that seeks to balance people, culture, and commerce in a reimagined city centre.