Cowper Street, Footscray Reconstruction

Reconstruction works along Cowper Street, between Harris and Lyons streets began in March 2024 and will continue into the second quarter of 2025.

These works include:

• Local road upgrades
• Installation of pedestrian footpaths and crossings and a footbridge over the existing aqueduct at Lyons Street
• New public lighting
• Landscaping
• Drainage upgrades.

These improvements will provide residents with safer and more convenient access to a multitude of recreational opportunities, local businesses, and the nearby Footscray train station.

Works update

Construction is concentrated on the last 150 metres of the northern side of Cowper Street with the intersection with Harris Street remaining closed until the project is complete.

Harris Street will remain open to traffic; up to the intersection with Cowper Street while these works are completed.

Traffic controllers are on site to support the safety of road users, including pedestrians, and work crews. Please follow all signage and directions On-street parking is restricted during works.

This is a complex project, unlike a typical road reconstruction, which has resulted in some delays due to the need for additional ground remediation to treat site contamination, in line with management protocols overseen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The revised expected completion date is May, though Council hopes to make access available ahead of this.

Construction crews are working onsite weekdays from 7am to 5pm with weekend work, if required, limited to 8am to 3pm.  Occasional night works may also be required.

The section of Harris Street from Cowper to Hyde streets will be permanently closed.

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