Night economy research initiative gains traction with study of Newcastle, Sydney and Liverpool night precincts and their night time characteristics. The project is part of a broader initiative to view night precincts through both a statistical and social research view.
The Night Owl Research Project which was paused substantially by the COVID 19 pandemic is starting to show some progress.
The research had its origins in the precinct analysis of regional town settings from Townsville to Newcastle and Liverpool by Dr Jon Drane. These studies were conducted during Dr Drane’s doctoral research at UNSW Built Environment and then Western Sydney University.
His focus on dormancy and precinct activation in these studies of day/night precincts led to an interest by Local Govts in his unique view of city precinct activation. His research also bridged planning and real estate development principles.
‘ I was interested in the fact that so much research attention focuses on an Economic Lens with the associated plethora of statistics and charts that are helpful but do not view precincts ‘from the ground’ and are not indicative of key social characteristis of the night economy’ Dr Jonathan Drane
The social research focuses on graphical representation and mixes the use of gis systems with CAD and photographic approaches to bring these precincts to life.
‘The Liverpool study was of particular interest because it highlighted ‘alcohol free’ venues that provided a vibrant and renewed energy to the traditional pubs and clubs culture of Australian night life. There were many lessons to learn from these offerings’.
Over the past 6 months we have revisited our former precinct studies and also undertook a detailed study of Newcastle City which is shown on our Night Owl Web Site. Please Contact Us if you need more information and also see our new Linked In and Facebook Pages for Optimum Search City Research Centre which runs the research with Dr Drane as founder.
The Newcastle study involved the mobilisation of a talented mix of early career students from University of Newcastle (UON) who brought their inherent skills and local knowledge to the study. The wonderful group of students came from different cultural backgrounds and from faculties/disciplines including Business, Architecture, Communications, Town Planning, Medicine and Economics. Thanks to you all, you have inspired me to continue with this research with future teams.
Dr Jonathan Drane
Related Articles:
ANZ Night Economy Forum explores the sleeping city: Read article.
City Planning and Design for Night Time Economy: Building Vibrant Spaces After Dark: Learn More
Creating a Night Economy: Do we plan it, design it or develop it, as city builders. Read Dr Drane’s article.