Since the wavy green chair known as Social Spaces was installed at the Drummond Street site, we have been collecting data to help understand how the space is used and valued by the community. With sensors used to collect data, we are continuing to explore how we can best provide safe spaces in the city for the community to dwell and connect.

As part of our commitment towards a Heat Safe City, we are exploring ways to provide shade in the city in the absence of trees. Social Spaces is an example where we need to design alternative ways to provide safe respite for our community in the warmer months.

We have also heard that shade was a popular request from the community during online surveys and observational audits across several months.

The design for a shade structure was informed by community data and environmental research. We expect to install the shade structure in June 2024, with preliminary works starting in May. The shade will be in place for a minimum of 12 months and tested across different seasons to measure its impact on the space. It will provide a cool place for visitors on sunny days.

Once installed we encourage you to visit Drummond Street and share your feedback. Our learnings from this investigation will inform future approaches to providing shade in the city.

Email your feedback to: Climate.Adaptation@melbourne.vic.gov.au