Council is delivering a number of public space projects in Footscray to help improve connectivity, amenity and greening.

Each project will support greener and leafier streets, upgrade some existing public areas, introduce new open spaces, and provide more outdoor dining opportunities in central Footscray.

The four projects include:

• Leeds Street Open Space and Donald Street intersection improvement
• Byron Plaza – shade structure and greening
• Nicholson Street – streetscape renewal and Concept Design
• Donald Street Reserve – slip lane removal and open space improvements.

We want to make sure the upgraded spaces support local residents and businesses, while helping improve public amenities and greening in the area.

That's why are asking nearby residents, businesses, traders and visitors to share their feedback and comments on the four designs. This will help finalise designs for the respective projects.

Learn more about each project and share your feedback and comments below. Engagement closes midnight Friday 5 December 2025.

Council is planning to create a new public open space and improve the intersection at Leeds and Donald Streets. The space will build on the existing street closure at Leeds Street and provide a more welcoming, intimate space for the community.

The project will improve walking connections between the new Footscray Hospital, Victoria University, Footscray Park, and the wider Footscray CBD. It will also increase greenery and help cool the area.We’re seeking feedback from nearby residents and key stakeholders to understand their support for the proposed upgrades and hear any ideas for additional features.

The proposed new open space is outlined below.

We're planning to increase shade and greenery at Byron Plaza to enhance this well-loved public space in central Footscray.

These improvements aim to make the area more comfortable and encourage people to spend more time there.

We are asking nearby residents and businesses to share their comments on the proposed upgrades.

We're proposing upgrades to Nicholson Street (between Barkly Street and Donald Street) to improve pedestrian safety and comfort by providing wider footpaths, more greenery, increased outdoor dining and improved lighting.

The proposed Concept Design aims to create a cooler, more resilient street environment, encourage slower vehicle speeds, and support increased cycling – particularly to Victoria University and the new Footscray Hospital.

There will be a reduction in car parking to support a safer pedestrian space and provide more outdoor dining along Nicholson Street. Exact numbers will be determined through the design process.

We are inviting feedback from nearby residents and businesses on the proposed upgrades and any additional features they’d like to see.

The current condition and the proposed Concept Design for Nicholson Street are outlined below.

The Donald Street Reserve – slip lane removal and open space improvement project will increase the size of the existing open space at the corner of Moore Street and Donald Street.

The project aims to improve pedestrian safety, while increasing greening and cooling in the area.

This is a design project for year one to support delivery in year two. Further investigations will understand impacts on existing signal and traffic volumes alongside Council's Transport Team and the Department of Transport and Planning.

We are asking nearby residents whether they support the larger open space and what features they would like to see at the site. You can learn more about the proposed upgrades below.