Melbourne is about to get little a bit easier to navigate on foot, with plans from the City of Melbourne to transform Flinders Lane into a “pedestrian first” street. According to The Age, the council is planning on closing some streets to traffic for part of the day, starting with Flinders Lane, and expanding out to other little streets and laneways, like Little Bourke Street and Crossley Street.
Making Flinders Lane safer for pedestrians
The City of Melbourne is looking at ways to make it easier for people to walk around the CBD, starting with Flinders Lane. This popular road will get a major refresh between Swanston and Degraves Streets, with wider bluestone paths and more greenery. The council will spend $5 million by raising the road to the same level as the footpath, making it easier for walkers. They will also install cobblestone traffic-calming devices. The bluestone pavers and greenery should be in place by spring this year.
As reported by The Age, the council would also like to close the lane and other nearby streets to traffic during busy times of day. This would be similar to Little Collins Street, which is closed to vehicles on weekdays between 12pm and 2pm.
The council will also invest $250,000 to explore similar projects around other little streets, like Little Collins Street, Little Bourke Street and Little Lonsdale Street, and extending Bourke Street Mall.
“Streets that put people first are safer and better for business – that’s why we’re transforming Flinders Lane and exploring more walkable retail precincts across the CBD,” said Lord Mayor Nick Reece.
$2 million will also be used to light up more streets after dark, with upgrades in popular areas like Hosier Lane and Hardware Line.
These plans were revealed as part of the draft budget for 2026-2027. You’re welcome to share your feedback here from now until 6pm on Tuesday, April 28.
