Improvements

Recent improvements

Council has undertaken a range of improvements in the last year to improve the public amenity and infrastructure within the Footscray CBD. 

Festoon lighting has recently been installed between the trees that run along the southern end of Nicholson Street (Little Africa) to create a colourful and festive appearance into the evenings. These works were funded by a State Government Grant.

We repaired the broken uplights in trees in the Nicholson Street Mall (outside of Mr West), and lighting treatment oo the Nicholson Street Bridge, which crosses over the train line, was also completed.

Byron Plaza was upgraded in 2023 with new lighting, seating and landscaping with stage and seating area with umbrellas.

We constructed a temporary playspace in Nicholson Street Mall to provide a new attraction for families with small children. 

Dalmahoy Street was completely reconstructed with a shared space with seating and tree planting.

Future improvements

We know Paisley Street requires work, but the buses must be centralised onto Irving Street before any major improvement works can commence.  We’ve been working with the State Government on a plan, but there has been no money allocated to the project in the State Budget. Once buses are removed from Paisley Street, a complete reconstruction of the street can take place, with new drainage, extended footpaths and more greening.  In the interim we’ll continue to undertake regular maintenance and will shortly be providing temporary drainage improvements.

We’ve also been working with the Department of Transport and Planning on the tram route 82 project to provide more opportunities along the route for pedestrian friendly streets and tree planting with shelters for those waiting for trams (and buses).