Project update - July 2025

In July 2024, Council endorsed the Concept Design for upgrading the public space at the northeast corner of Gertrude and Brunswick Streets.

We will start construction on site in July 2025, with the removal of the existing vegetation, metalworks and seating to commence in August.

The works will include:

• earthworks to shape the site

• removal of vegetation

• installation of new native trees, shrubs and grasses

• new gathering space

• decorative and functional rock work, including bespoke furniture

• new concrete ramp access, balustrading and handrails

• new lighting and projector

• new drinking fountain

• demolition of sections of kerb and footpath

• installation of new kerb and asphalt footpath

There will be some minor disruptions while the works take place. Construction is expected to be completed by December 2025.

Thanks to everyone who contributed. This consultation is closed - we used your feedback to create a Final Concept Design to improve this space.

Final Concept Design endorsed

At the Council Meeting on Tuesday 9 July 2024, Council endorsed the Final Concept Design for upgrading the public space at the northeast corner of Gertrude and Brunswick Streets in Fitzroy.

In November and December 2023, we asked the community to share their thoughts on our draft Concept Design and tell us if we got it right. We received useful feedback on key elements of the design, the layout of the space, how the community would like to use the space, and other issues to consider.

Using your feedback, we created a design for a vibrant new public space at the northeast corner of Gertrude and Brunswick Streets. This idea was raised during our consultation for the Brunswick Street Streetscape Masterplan and there was strong community support for a new public space at this location (over 80%).

The community was given the opportunity to fill in the survey and share their thoughts about the proposed design. We also provided an opportunity to come along and speak to the team on Thursday 30 November and Saturday 9 December 2023. Feedback closed at 9am on Monday 18 December 2023.

We consulted with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and key stakeholders from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and discussed how this space is significant for them. The new proposed Gertrude and Brunswick Streets corner design will reflect stories and ideas shared as well as complement other initiatives in the surrounding areas, including the Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter statues in Atherton Gardens.

Part of the site is located on Atherton Gardens, which is owned by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH). Council has received approval from DFFH and Homes Victoria to use this land as a public space.

Thanks to everyone who shared your thoughts – your feedback has helped us to finalise the design. You can read more about the consultation in the reports below:

• Read the Community Engagement Report (PDF)
• Read the Targeted Engagement Report (PDF)