Future of the Bunbury Street Precinct

Bunbury Street is a key civic avenue known for its character and charm.  Shaded by a now fragmented avenue of large canopy trees it is a key link between the bustle of central Footscray and the Arts and River precinct. 

The avenue is due for renewal in both planting (where trees were removed due to risk of structural failure) and civil works (drainage, footpaths, lighting and levels).  Council plans to maintain the large healthy and structurally sound canopy trees.  Two of the trees on site have been previously pollard pruned and cannot grow a structurally sound large canopy, one tree has died and one tree is in poor health.  These four trees are proposed for replacement with the new works.  In the proposed designs Council is investigating ways to create a better environment for tree growth, including amelioration to soils and water sensitive urban design (capturing rainwater to water the trees).  Council is also working with tree and landscape experts to future proof the avenue against the stresses of a warming climate and maximise canopy coverage where it has been lost.  The landscape and civil works on the street will reduce vehicle speeds, encourage pedestrian and cycling access, improve biodiversity and the presentation of this important civic avenue. 

The concept design is in response to feedback from residents and the local community where you told us you supported:

• Green space and greater tree canopy, and valued the heritage trees.
• Recognition of the heritage of the site (indigenous and colonial) and connection with Central Footscray, the River, and Arts precinct.
• Improved maintenance of footpaths, trees and verges.
• Active transport on Bunbury Street via s 'Shared Space' low speed road for both cyclists and vehicles and improved pedestrian access throughout.  

The renewal works have presented an opportunity to express the heritage and stories of this important civic avenue through design and integrated art.  Council is commencing work with indigenous artists to express the cultural heritage and native flora and fauna of the area.  The streetscape design team will also be developing the expression of the colonial heritage of the street including decorative lighting and wayfinding elements.  

Local residents living within the heritage overlay area were also concerned about availability of on-street car parking for residents and visitors and traffic movements.  Council is investigating parking in the wider precinct and will propose recommendations once the analysis is completed.  Council will work with the local community to find the best outcomes for all.  The parking analysis is running in parallel with the street works.  In regards to traffic movements comments have been noted and alterations to the concept design will be updated in the developed design.  

Council plans to present both the developed design and parking recommendations late summer to early autumn 2024.  Construction of works to commence in 2024-2025 financial year subject to funding.  

For further information please see Bunbury Streetscape Improvements/Your City our Voice or contact the City Design Team on 9688 0200.