City of Melbourne and the North & West Melbourne Precinct Association are keen to test landscaping ideas that offer a fresh feel to much loved Errol Street.

By piloting flexible pop-up installations over a six month trial, we can experiment with different types of greenery and seating arrangements without altering the existing footpath and road spaces. We plan to start small and can scale up according to demand.

To begin with, we will introduce 25 native trees with understorey grasses in 1.3 m concrete planter boxes. Most of these will be incorporated into permitted out-door dining spaces, with a few shading patrons by the post office.

Four bench seating areas will be created on either side of the street, including one that will be inset into a carpark in front of Neighbourhood House, The Centre. These will provide visitors an informal spot to relax while doing their shopping, find out what’s happening locally, or meet friends before heading out for a meal or a show.

We will evaluate the effectiveness of these changes mid-2022 based on public feedback, and if popular, will explore more permanent greening and activation solutions for the strip.

Anticipated benefits:

  • Boost ambiance, wellbeing and visual interest for people walking and driving through.
  • Increased habitat for insects and birds.
  • Encourage foot-traffic to local businesses and spontaneous conversations.
  • Enhanced safety of pedestrians through the dual design of concrete planters as collision barriers.

Imagining a different streetscape

Before: Errol Street side of street. After: Artist impression of trees on Errol Street.
Before: Errol Street with Town Hall. After

Proposed location plan

Map of Errol Street.

Making Errol Street exceptional