Works to improve safety, amenity and functionality of the Nicholson Street Mall are set to begin.
Short-term works will focus on the:
- Relocation of the taxi rank to Service Street minimising direct interface with shopfronts with associated line marking, signage and accessibility improvements, including accessibility ramps – subject to final consultation and approvals.
- Removal of taxi rank shelter in Nicholson Street (eastern end of the mall).
- Removal of the public toilet and kiosk, including associated electrical, CCTV and service works. CTTV will remain in the mall.
- Removal of redundant bins and tables.
- Some minor safety improvements and maintenance of remaining infrastructure
The cost of the taxi rank relocation and short-term intervention is approximately $150,000. Works will be completed by local contractors and Council staff. Subject to contractor availability, demolition works could commence in early November and be completed before Christmas 2026. The taxi rank will be relocated as a priority.
Longer-term development
A longer-term redevelopment of the mall would create a space that meets the needs of the community, businesses and visitors well into the future.
The project schedule for long-term redevelopment would see the project out to tender in mid-2027. Any decision to progress with works will require community consultation on options, and budget allocation and funding support.
A shared-use zone, which would prioritise pedestrians and include vehicle access, is consistent with successful precedents elsewhere and can play a part in supporting business, increasing activation of the mall. This could include the completion of a design for the eastern end of Nicholson Street. Reinstating the road altogether is also an option. Retaining civic space in the mall to support business and temporary or programmed activations is also an important consideration.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the approach allows Council to respond to community concerns now while taking the time to plan and budget – and seek funding for – the mall's long-term future.
"We've deliberately focused on improvements that will provide an immediate community benefit and are unlikely to become redundant when the long-term redevelopment proceeds,” Cr Ashworth said.
Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said this approach helps address current issues while being mindful of community expectations around unbudgeted spending on interim works.
"By separating the immediate works from the longer-term planning process, we're able to improve the space now while getting the future design right. That includes engaging with a broad cross-section of the community,” Ms Weigall said.
"We will provide further updates as works progress.”
Anti-social activity and crime
Anti-social and criminal activity in public spaces is a challenging problem across Victoria, and this behaviour is not isolated to the mall.
If anyone experiences activity in the mall area or anywhere else that involves unlawful or dangerous behaviour please refer the matter immediately to Victoria Police on 000 (for emergencies) or 131 444 for non‑urgent assistance.
“There are also incidents, such as the alleged incident last Wednesday when a vehicle was reported to have been driven erratically around the eastern end of Nicholson Street. These incidents can happen anywhere and at any time,” Ms Weigall said.
“The infrastructure changes outlined will assist in reducing some of this behaviour. They are unlikely to remove or relocate it completely, nor will they resolve the broader societal issues we are all experiencing as a community.”