The final plan for Swanston Street has been endorsed by Melbourne City Councillors.

The $25.6 million plan includes dedicated bike lanes, private vehicles and taxis access removed, new street furniture and lighting the construction of four new platform tram stops.

In April and May 2009, a comprehensive community consultation process, which offered seven future options for the street, resulted in a majority of people supporting option six.

This option focused on fewer cars accessing the street and a greater emphasis on public transport, bikes and people. Visit Background to Swanston Street redevelopment to view the seven options.

Council’s objective is to develop Swanston Street as the pre-eminent civic space for all Melburnians, providing enhanced experiences and access for shoppers, visitors, workers, cyclists and tram patrons.

Key aspects of the plan include:
• private cars and taxis would be banned
• a seamless civic space created with dedicated bike lanes and the construction of four new public spaces incorporating tram stops
• new street furniture including public seating, ceremonial lighting, additional trees and planter boxes and public artworks
• service delivery vehicles would continue to have restricted access,
with a further review in 2012