The City of Stonnington has formally endorsed a new, comprehensive Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan – starting with a $4.38 million investment in 2025/26, combining Special Rate Scheme funds, capital works, operational funding and external grants, to reinvigorate one of Melbourne's most iconic destinations.
From 1 July 2025, Council will deliver a targeted program of actions to support public safety, improve cleanliness, and strengthen business and community confidence across Chapel Street.
The plan includes an extensive activation and marketing campaign, stepped-up cleaning, targeted graffiti removal, and a new daytime outreach program supporting vulnerable people in the precinct.
Mayor of Stonnington, Cr Melina Sehr, said the plan was a decisive step forward for Chapel Street and a direct response to community and business concerns.
"Chapel Street is a special place in the hearts of locals and Melburnians alike – but it's clear that it needs support," Cr Sehr said.
"We've heard from traders, property owners and residents who want to see action on safety, stronger amenity, and help to attract more people back to the precinct. That's what this plan delivers."
The plan follows Council's April 2025 decision to engage directly with special ratepayers and local businesses, including in-person forums and surveys, to seek feedback on a draft proposal. Several consistent themes emerged – the need to restore Chapel Street's reputation, to improve safety and the look and feel of the public realm.
Key features of the plan include:
- A precinct-wide marketing and activation campaign to attract visitation and position Chapel Street as a vibrant retail, hospitality and cultural destination
- Enhanced after-hours cleaning and pressure washing
- Increased graffiti removal and precinct presentation investment
- A new outreach program delivered in partnership with community agency partners to support vulnerable individuals during the day.
A new Chapel Street Place Manager role will also be created to coordinate the program, report directly to the City of Stonnington CEO and act as a single point of contact for Chapel Street businesses.
"This is about restoring pride in the precinct, bringing people back, and making Chapel Street a place people feel safe, welcome and excited to visit," Cr Sehr said.
"It's a fresh start – but also the beginning of a longer-term transformation."
The plan also responds to the Chapel Street Precinct Association's decision to step away from administering Special Rate Scheme funds.
Council will now manage all marketing programs and initiatives funded through the Special Rate Scheme, ensuring strong oversight, continuity and transparent delivery. Stonnington Chief Executive Officer Dale Dickson PSM welcomed the transition and acknowledged the CSPA's assistance in ensuring a smooth transition.
"We thank the Chapel Street Precinct Association for their collaborative handover. This next phase will provide the certainty, structure and investment needed to restore momentum and confidence," Mr Dickson said.
Council is also progressing longer-term planning through the Chapel Street Transformation Project, with further exciting updates due in late 2025.
