Works are expected to start this week on the Elizabeth Street upgrade in Melbourne, which will deliver more space for pedestrians and a more appealing streetscape.
The works will see the southbound traffic lane closed and the roadway on the eastern side of Elizabeth Street, between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane, turned into a new pedestrian zone. The transformation of this space will increase the pedestrian area by 400 square metres.
Early works will begin later this week, with street furniture to be removed to make way for construction. As part of the works, fences will be installed on the eastern side of Elizabeth Street.
Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Sally Capp, said the project would create 10 jobs now and deliver a more attractive and functional streetscape for years to come.
“After a number of hurdles on this project last year we are pleased to announce the start of works on the southern end of Elizabeth Street,” the Lord Mayor said.
“We are creating an enhanced space for our city residents, workers and visitors to safely access nearby public transport and shops while maintaining physical distance. There will be new trees and greenery, new street furniture, lights and bluestone paving.”
“The project team is working closely with local businesses to maintain pedestrian access and ensure access for deliveries and waste removal.”
The Lord Mayor said it was important to deliver more space for pedestrians to improve safety and create a more appealing space for residents, workers and shoppers.
“The Elizabeth Street intersection with Flinders Street was one of our busiest pedestrian intersections before the lockdown, with up to 10,000 people crossing the area every hour during the morning peak,” she detailed.
Works on Elizabeth Street were delayed last year due to limits on construction workers during the stage four lockdown, changes to the project design to retain the existing stepped kerb due to updated flood modelling and the condition of underground drainage infrastructure.
Works were further delayed in order not to disrupt the busy Christmas period, one of the most important times of the year for city traders.
The Elizabeth Street Streetscape Improvement works are being delivered by the City of Melbourne as part of its contribution to the $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund, which is a partnership with the Victorian Government.
