The City of Melbourne is investing $6.3 million to repair and upgrade footpaths across the municipality as more residents head back to the City for work and leisure, and in preparation for a busy line-up of spring and summer events and activations.
More than 4,800m² of work will take place across some of the most popular areas of the city, including Collins Street, Exhibition Street, La Trobe Street, Queen Street and Lonsdale Street.
The footpath blitz will occur across more than ten sites, demolishing worn out and unsafe existing asphalt footpaths and replacing them with bluestone pavers.
In some locations, new pedestrian access ramps and vehicle crossings will be constructed, and in others the bluestone kerb renewed.
City of Melbourne Acting Lord Mayor, Nicholas Reece, said the blitz would make the streets sparkle and help to deliver safer and more accessible paths to ensure Melbourne is in top shape heading into the busiest period of the year.
“Footpaths in the CBD are the largest and most used open spaces in Melbourne, with our bluestone pavement an iconic part of the city’s charm and character,” Mr Reece said.
“We want to create an inviting city which encourages visitors, workers and students to stay longer, while also providing a safe space for our traders to work.”
The work will take place at the following sites:
- Exhibition Street, between Collins Street and Little Collins Street
- La Trobe Street
- Between Swanston Street and Russell Street (south side)
- Between Russell Street and Exhibition Street (south side)
- Collins Street, between Spencer Street and King Street
- Queen Street
- Between Flinders Lane and Collins Street
- Between Collins Street and Little Collins Street (west side)
- Between Bourke Street and Little Collins Street (west side)
- Between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane (east side)
- Lonsdale Street
- Between Queen Street and Lonsdale Lane (north side)
- Between Russell Street and Exhibition Street (south side)
While CBD pedestrian activity in July and August was at 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, foot traffic and outdoor dining numbers are expected to soar across the city leading into the festive season.
Access to residential properties and businesses will be maintained throughout the works, which will be carried out as quickly as possible to minimise disruption for local traders and residents.
The blitz is scheduled to commence in September-October, with all works expected to be completed by mid-2023.
