Temporary access changes: To complete the upgrade safely and efficiently, access to Columbia Street will be restricted to pedestrians and vehicle during construction.
Access to Glenferrie Station and Don Arcade will be maintained via Alfred Street.
Clear signage and wayfinding will be provided throughout the precinct to guide all users during the interruptions. We understand this may cause short-term inconvenience and thank you for your patience as we deliver long-term improvements for the area.
As part of our Glenferrie Place Plan, we're revitalising Columbia Street in Hawthorn to create a safer, greener and more welcoming laneway between Glenferrie Road, Glenferrie Station and Swinburne University.
About the project
Columbia Street is a busy pedestrian link tucked behind Glenferrie Road. Each day, it serves as a vital connection for commuters, students, shoppers and local workers. But with limited space for pedestrians, it’s time for an upgrade.
Based on community feedback and support during development of the Place Plan, we're transforming Columbia Street into a high-quality, people-focused space with better amenity and accessibility. This project is part of broader efforts to improve station laneways across the precinct and deliver on the community's vision for a more vibrant, safer, green and connected Glenferrie.
What’s proposed
Overall, the upgrade will make Columbia Street a more attractive and welcoming gateway into the Glenferrie precinct.
Once complete, the upgraded Columbia Street laneway will include:
- wider bluestone footpaths to improve safety and pedestrian access
- new seating and gathering spaces
- improved landscaping and tree planting
- upgraded lighting
- a drinking fountain
- a place to park bikes
- off-street parking for station staff
- improved integration with Glenferrie Station and Don Arcade.
Artist’s impression of Columbia Street, Hawthorn at night.
Construction timing
Construction is anticipated to begin from about mid-October this year. The project has been developed in collaboration with key stakeholders including Metro Trains Melbourne and Swinburne University of Technology.
Stay tuned for more detailed timing closer to works commencing.
More information
Find out more about our station laneways and streetscape upgrades across Glenferrie Road on our consultation website. If you’d like further information, please contact please contact our Capital Projects Team at (03) 9278 4444 or email [email protected].