St Kilda will remain open for business this summer while works take place around the famous Luna Park and Palais Theatre to create a new pedestrian plaza.
There will be changes to traffic conditions and access to the precinct as construction starts on 8 January to build a safer and more welcoming public space for the two Melbourne icons.
The revitalisation project will provide greater protection against hostile vehicles, while the creation of a shared zone on Cavell Street will reduce vehicle speed and prioritise pedestrians.
The new community-centred space will also include seating, new public lighting and additional shade from new trees and garden beds.
Port Phillip Council Mayor Heather Cunsolo reminded residents and visitors that it’s business as usual at Luna Park and the Palais Theatre as the surrounding precinct receives a makeover.
“You may see temporary fencing and construction work near two of our most beloved locations,” she said. “But that won’t silence the screams of joy and laughter you’ll hear from inside Luna Park or the excitement of people streaming out of the Palais Theatre after an incredible night of live music.”
Construction will take place over several stages with different traffic conditions implemented. To stay up to date about the latest changes to accessibility, visit Council’s Palais Theatre and Luna Park precinct revitalisation webpage.
Council is delivering the project in partnership with the Victorian Government. Works are expected to be completed by mid-2024.
Creating a safer and more inviting space is vital given the hundreds of thousands of visitors St Kilda attracts in the peak season.
Council’s Summer Southside campaign is in full swing and, as the weather heats up, so does the fun in St Kilda.
Several exciting events are happening in St Kilda this summer, including:
• the return of the iconic St Kilda Festival on 17 – 18 February with two days of incredible live music.
• the Midsumma Festival (21 January – 11 February) and Midsumma Pride March, which will turn Fitzroy Street into a sea of colour on 4 February in a celebration of the LGBTIQA+ community.
• Sunset Market, a new pop-up makers market, landing in Acland Street in the new year.
• the popular KIIS Eye Ferris Wheel returning to Catani Gardens, offering stunning 360-degree views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.
Keep up to date with all the latest events happening in and around St Kilda by visiting Council’s What’s On St Kilda and the Southside website.
Background
• The project is being delivered in response to an independent assessment that identified risks relating to attacks using vehicles as weapons.
• Carparking will always be available on Jacka Boulevard throughout the duration of the works.
• Cavell Street will be open to pedestrians during St Kilda Festival on 17 – 18 February to help large crowds access the Festival, foreshore and St Kilda area.
• Vehicle and pedestrian access to Luna Park, Palais Theatre and Cavell Street car park will always be accessible via Jacka Boulevard throughout the duration of works.
• Any temporary road or footpath closures will be advised in advance.
• Noise associated with construction works will be limited to standard working hours.
