Melbourne Street Revitalisation
Project Status
Detailed design progressing
Latest project update - August 2026
Stage 1 construction works completed
Construction of two new raised pedestrian crossings on Melbourne Street has been completed, marking the completion of Stage 1 of the Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project.
The new crossings, located at the eastern and western ends of Melbourne Street, are now open for use following the completion of civil works, landscaping and new street lighting. The crossings improve pedestrian safety and accessibility along Melbourne Street and represent the first stage of improvements being delivered as part of the broader revitalisation of the precinct.
A 40 km/h speed limit has also been introduced along the full length of Melbourne Street. The reduced speed limit complements the new crossings and supports a safer and more accessible environment for pedestrians and other road users.
Planning for Stage 2 of the Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project is continuing. Feedback received through the recent concept design consultation is being considered as the design and delivery approach for the next stage progresses.
Further updates on Stage 2 will be provided as the project progresses.
This stage was supported by a $600,000 contribution through the Australian Government's National Road Safety Program, delivered in partnership with the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
Stage 2 Streetscape upgrade progressing to detailed design
On 23 June 2026, Council considered the community engagement findings and endorsed the project progressing to the next stage. You can find out more about the consultation process and outcome here.
The concept design will now move into detailed design. During this stage, the design will be further refined, taking into consideration the feedback received from the community on key project elements.
Flexi-zone demonstration
Many community members wanted more information about how flexible kerbside spaces, known as flexi-zones, would operate and how parking would be balanced with outdoor dining and other activities.
We are now exploring opportunities to trial flexi-zones within a section of Melbourne Street. We will let the community know what happens next and share further details if Council decides to proceed with a practical demonstration.
Why are we doing this?
The City of Adelaide has identified the Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project as part of its Main Streets Revitalisation Program.
Melbourne Street serves as an important northern gateway to the city and is a distinctive main street within North Adelaide, celebrated for its mix of hospitality venues, boutique shops, medical services, and heritage character.
The Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project has been allocated $6.5 million in new and upgrade funding, supported by additional renewal budgets and external funding from the Government of South Australia.
The aim of the project is to strengthen Melbourne Street’s identity as a vibrant destination and create an attractive environment that supports local businesses, residents, and visitors.
About the project
Located in North Adelaide, Melbourne Street has long been valued for its diverse mix of cafés, restaurants, specialist medical practices, and boutique retailers. However, in recent years the street has faced challenges, including aging infrastructure, limited pedestrian space, and business turnover.
The revitalisation project will deliver targeted improvements that reflect the community’s vision for Melbourne Street as an appealing destination of choice - known for its polish, artisan experiences, and vibrant dining culture to the east, complemented by professional and specialist services to the west.
Community input gathered through the 2022 consultation helped shape the Melbourne Street Master Plan. This plan identifies community priorities for the street as:
- Create a unique brand and identity
- Curate the business and commercial mix
- Refresh the public realm
- Accessibility
- Introduce more vibrancy and creative connections
What are we doing?
Implementation of the master plan is occurring in stages.
Short-term activation improvement works on Melbourne Street
Following the establishment of the master plan in 2022, the Government of South Australia supported the City of Adelaide with a $1m grant funding which focused on enhancing and activating the street. Works include:
- Rationalisation of street furniture - completed
- Temporary footpath extension - completed
- Entry Statement Banner Brackets - completed
- Festoon lights - completed
- Suspended planter boxes - completed
- Dunn St car park sign – in progress
For further details, please visit the Melbourne Street Improvement Works page.
Streetscape upgrade
Stage 2 will deliver broader streetscape upgrades aligned with asset renewal priorities and the actions identified in the master plan.
On 23 June 2026, Council considered the community engagement findings and endorsed the project progressing to the next stage.
The concept design will now move into detailed design. During this stage, the design will be further refined, taking into consideration the feedback received from the community on key project elements.
When are we doing it?
- February to March 2026: Consultation on concept design
- Mid-June 2026: Construction of wombat crossings begins
- June 2026: Council review and endorsement of streetscape upgrade concept design
- Mid to late 2026: Commencement of detailed design development
- Late September 2026: Construction of wombat crossings complete and 40 km/h speed limit introduced
- 2028–29: Commence procurement and staged construction to minimise disruption
What we heard
Community engagement
Between 25 February and 25 March 2026, we asked the community for feedback on the proposed concept design. Thank you to everyone who shared their views.
The community supported improved pedestrian safety, public space upgrades and a more attractive streetscape, reduced vehicle speeds, outdoor dining and increased street activity, and more trees and greenery.
Feedback also highlighted the importance of on-street parking for access, local businesses and short-stay visits, as well as considerations relating to traffic and congestion, flexible kerbside spaces, cycling infrastructure and access to bus stops.
Need more information?
For more information, please contact:
For enquiries in relation to the wombat crossings, please contact: