The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics has responded to criticism over the “tired” look of Katherine’s main street.

More than 10 shops are empty and many residents are calling for action to revitalise the city centre.

Katherine Mayor Fay Miller has pointed out that Katherine Terrace is actually part of the Stuart Highway and owned by the government, not council.

“It is pertinent at this time to mention that council does not own the main street, it is up to DIPL to make arrangements with businesses,” Mayor Miller said.

A department spokeswoman said it was not responsible for buildings.

“The works relate to all assets within the road reserve including street lights, traffic signals, footpath scrubbing and cleaning, litter collection, garden and verge maintenance, street furniture,” the spokeswoman said.

“The department’s responsibility does not extend beyond the property boundaries however between 2007 – 2009 the government NTG contributed more than $1.5m to replace much of the old cracked concrete paths with pavers, tree planting, improved access and drainage improvements.

“This work was done following the requests and in consultation with property owners, Chamber of Commerce and Katherine Town Council.”

The spokeswoman said the street was maintained to “the best of our ability in an environment that has many social and environmental challenges”.  

The spokeswoman said there were no funds identified specifically for “beautification works”.

“We do have funds for ongoing maintenance and in addition we have additional funds allocated for streetscape works which will mainly be focused on reticulation upgrades.

The department said it could not comment on the replacement or restoration of old shop signs in the main street.

Some residents have raised the issue about changing the “look of the main street by altering planting in the median strip.

“Many of the trees in the medium strip were planted in the 80’s and 90’s by council/government and families and have plaques installed,” the spokeswoman said.

“Trees will be preserved unless they are a hazard, and then only subject to trimming.

“Street furniture has been installed and removed many times over the years with a  common complaint from business owners that seating attracts anti-social behaviour or smokers which impacts on their trade.

“Like any town in Australia, vandalism also creates challenges for our street furniture however recent years greater control of alcohol availability has reduced the level of litter and vandalism.”

The department spokeswoman said it would continue to work with other government authorities, the council and Chamber of Commerce, “to work to improve the amenities of the town”.