Exhibition Street Theatre Precinct streetscape improvements


December 18, 2023

City of Melbourne is revitalising Melbourne’s live theatre district - giving thousands of theatre-goers more room to move as they make their way to and from the area.

Streetscape improvements will extend from Little Lonsdale Street to Bourke Street, delivering upgraded footpaths, new trees, a safer bike lane and bigger pedestrian spaces outside Her Majesty’s Theatre and the Comedy Theatre.

This project is supported through the Melbourne City Recovery Fund – a $200 million partnership of the Victorian Government and City of Melbourne.

To avoid the Christmas trading period, works are expected to start in January 2024 and be completed by mid-2024.


The scope of the works includes:

  • Creating a wider footpath with new bluestone pavers.
  • Installing garden beds with plants and trees, helping to cool the area in the warmer months.
  • Upgrading the existing bike lane to make it safer for all road users and pedestrians.
  • Installing new street furniture such as seats, bike hoops and bluestone blocks.
  • Upgrading the storm water drains and irrigation system.
  • Installing new electrical power outlets.
  • Improving the layout of parking bays.

    While works are underway, you can expect:
  • Traffic and bike riding access will be maintained at all times.
  • Some parking bays will be occupied by the work zone and equipment.
  • Pedestrian access will be restricted at times - signage will be in place to safely redirect people around the work zone.
  • Access to driveways and businesses will be maintained at all times.
  • Construction hours will be 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday, occasional overnight and weekend work will be required.
  • Noise and dust is to be expected.




    An artist's impression of the wider footpath outside the Comedy Theatre. An artist's impression of the wider footpath outside Her Majesty's Theatre.

    To find out more, contact 9658 9658
    or visit melbourne.vic.gov.au/cityprojects