The conversation

Between 6 October and 21 November 2021 we invited public comment on the draft Carlton Gardens Master Plan. The draft revises the existing 2005 Master Plan and was developed as part of a wider review of the World Heritage Management Plan for the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens.

Gathering insights

Feedback on the plan was received through:

  • an online survey
  • public online focus group
  • online children's focus groups
  • onsite pop-up kiosk events including walking tours
  • walking tour map activity
  • Public Stakeholder submissions.

Over 200 people contributed their thoughts and ideas on the draft Master Plan. A number of direct submissions were also received.

Who we reached

115

upper primary school students in focus group talks

70

consultation conversations in the gardens

2539

website visitors

235

surveys and submissions received

Pop-up consultation events

Select each image to enlarge.

What we heard

Overall the draft Master Plan recommendations were supported and many additional comments were made. The proposals which were most strongly supported (over 90 per cent support) in the feedback responses include:

  • The re-introduction of shrub beds at key intersections in Carlton Gardens South, consistent with the 19th century layout.
  • Improved lighting for some pathways and areas in the gardens.
  • Planting more trees to increase the amount of shade in key activity areas in Carlton Gardens North.
  • Replacing the existing public toilet facilities with safer, secure and more accessible facilities.
  • Improving pedestrian access across Victoria Street to the gardens.
A full report on the community engagement activities and feedback is available below.

Impact

The feedback we heard from the community during the consultation period will be used to further refine and guide the finalisation of the Master Plan.

A final Master Plan will be considered by the Council’s Future Melbourne Committee in 2022.

The scheduled date for the meeting will be advised in advance on Participate Melbourne.

Thank you to everybody who provided input and feedback on the recommendations in the Plan.

Next steps

The Final Master Plan goes to Future Melbourne Committee for approval in 2022.

Consultation and review of World Heritage Management Plan (by Heritage Victoria) will take place in 2022.

Carlton Gardens Master Plan