Swanston Street redevelopment FAQs

How did the Swanston Street redevelopment consultation come about?

In December 2008, Council unanimously endorsed the following motion:

That Council asks the Chief Executive Officer to prepare a report for the March (2009) meeting of Council, which explores the range of options for the future redevelopment of Swanston Street, from re-opening (to traffic) to further pedestrianisation: the report to include indicative costings and street layout proposals; and following receipt of the report, consults with the community on the redevelopment options.

How were the design options created?

In January 2009, the City of Melbourne led a series of workshops known as ‘design charrettes’ with internal and external urban design, transport and architectural experts to develop technically viable design options for Swanston Street.

The workshops enabled collaboration between the City of Melbourne and design and architectural consultants, transport authority groups, residents groups, bicycle advocacy groups and Victorian government representatives.

Building on the ideas and issues that arose in these workshops, the concepts were further reviewed and developed to create a number of technically viable design options for the street.

The collaboratively developed design options were presented in a report to Council which saw seven options endorsed, exploring a range of options for Swanston Street.

What part of Swanston Street is under review?

The section of Swanston Street under review is between Flinders Street to the south and Franklin Street to the north.

Why is it necessary to review Swanston Street?

By 2020, more than one million people are expected to access the city each weekday. In light of this, a review of Swanston Street is critical.

How were the design options developed?

In January 2009, a series of meetings were held with key Swanston Street stakeholder representatives to consider the continued improvement of Swanston Street.

A range of technically viable design options were developed. These are being considered through the community consultation.

What if I have a specific question about the design options?

Phone the City of Melbourne on 9658 9658 and speak to a Customer Relations Officer.

How will a final decision be made?

The consultation is a vital stage of the decision making process and will lead to the development of the best solutions for the future of Swanston Street.

Following the consultation, Council will refine and further explore the preferred options for Swanston Street.

A report of the outcomes of the community consultation along with an outline of the next steps will be presented to the June meeting of Council.

A final redevelopment plan will be endorsed later this year.

When does the consultation end?

Consultation forms must be received by 5pm on Friday, 8 May 2009.