In mid-2024 we asked the community for feedback on the Chelmsford Street Open Space draft concept plan, which was informed by the first phase of community engagement.

The second phase of engagement ran from 20 May 2024 to 18 June 2024.

We collected feedback through:

• An online survey on Participate Melbourne
• A pop-up session held at 70-90 Chelmsford Street
• Two in-person sessions:
  • Chatty Café at the Kensington Neighbourhood Centre
  • Kensington Community Children's Co-op at The Venny.

We also:

• Distributed postcards to local residents, businesses and community centres.
• Installed project signage with information about the proposal and a QR code linking to the Participate Melbourne survey within the vicinity of 70-90 Chelmsford Street.
• Promoted community engagement via social media posts.

84 per cent of survey respondents supported our draft concept plan for the Chelmsford Street Open Space.

As summary of responses to questions asked in the survey is as follows:

• Over three quarters of respondents (82 per cent) supported proposed new garden beds and tree planting on Chelmsford Street, with parking availability the main concern of those opposed.
• Most respondents (79 per cent) supported proposed changes to Bent Street. Those who opposed the proposal were concerned about reduced parking for residents and visitors and impacts to traffic flow by making Bent Street one-way.
• Nearly half of respondents provided suggestions for play and recreation elements. The most common suggestions were for basketball facilities, exercising, and play equipment.
• 39 per cent of respondents provided suggestions for socialising and community gathering elements. The most common suggestions were for shelters, seating, and lawn areas.

Feedback received from the second phase of engagement will help inform the Chelmsford Street Open Space final concept plan, which will considered by the Future Melbourne Committee in August 2024.

In late 2023 we asked the community about our proposed vision and opportunities for the Chelmsford Street Open Space, as well as the potential activities and amenities the new open space could support.

We’ve also consulted with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Traditional Owners to seek their feedback on how the future open space could recognise and celebrate Aboriginal cultural heritage.

The first phase of engagement for the Chelmsford Street Open Space ran from 9 November 2023 to 8 January 2024.

We collected feedback through:

• An online survey on Participate Melbourne (paper copies were also available during pop-up sessions)
• Two pop-up sessions held at 70-90 Chelmsford Street
• Four focus group sessions:
  • Community focus group (online)
  • Homework club at the Kensington Housing Estate
  • Kensington Community Children's Co-op
  • Christmas Party at The Venny
• Three intercept surveys
• Door knocking local business and services.

We also:

• Distributed postcards to local residents, businesses and community centres.
• Installed project signage with information about the proposal and a QR code linking to the Participate Melbourne survey within the vicinity of 70-90 Chelmsford Street.

90 per cent of survey respondents were supportive of the project vision and 89 per cent were supportive of the project opportunities.

The top activities selected by survey respondents were:

• Gathering and socialising
• Relaxation and contemplation
• Connecting with and learning about nature
• Play
• Walking and wheeling (prams, wheelchairs and walkers)
• Informal sport and exercise
• On-leash dog walking.

The top amenities selected by survey respondents were:

• Picnic areas
• Lawn areas
• Seating for groups and individuals
• Play elements
• BBQs
• Informal sport amenities (e.g. basketball hoop, soccer goal and hit-up wall)

All feedback received from the first phase of engagement will help inform the draft concept plan, which will be shared with the community in May 2024.

An accessible version of the infographic will be available soon. Any enquiries, please contact City of Melbourne on 9658 9658.