Armidale Regional Council had more than 170 days to prepare a report on the mall’s future.

But the administrator has sent staff back to the drawing board, labelling the Mall Vibrancy Master Plan as incomplete.

“It was important that I take a stand because I think the public is entitled to all the relevant information,” Dr Tiley said.

“The report alluded to new infrastructure but did not identify it.

“Furthermore, there was no identification as to how whatever is to be done is going be paid for.

“And unless that is all out in the public arena, why would you sign off on the plan.”

The report’s purpose is to identify key initiatives to revitalise the CBD.

It focuses on four main areas; people, support, infrastructure and business, which it says will all play a role in returning the mall to prosperity.

Tearing down the shade sails outside the Tattersalls Hotel, building an overhead awning in Cinders Way and reopening the East and West Malls to two-way traffic are all listed as potential infrastructure developments.

While a boost to the public event program and a more modern, de-cluttered space will be designed to increase shopper traffic and maximise engagement.

A new covered performance stage, pavement based fountain and free wifi are also on the table.

Council staff will now have less than one month to fix the document before it is reconsidered at the February 8 Council meeting in Tingha.

“When I came here, those plans were not even out on public exhibition,” Dr Tiley said.

“So that's the first thing I did. And now I want the report to clearly identify the activities that are proposed to enhance the vibrancy of the mall.”