The proposed partial temporary closure of Melrose Street in Sandringham Village will not proceed later this year, following Council's consideration of community feedback, including strong opposition to the proposal from many local traders.
We will instead encourage visitation and enjoyment of the shopping village through placemaking opportunities, consistent with the Sandringham Village Masterplan.
The idea to partially close Melrose Street, between Beach Road and Station Street, was initially put forward to Council through a petition. In September and October 2022, we asked the community and local traders what they thought about pedestrianising a section of Melrose Street, as well as aspirations for the future use of this space. As community sentiment was polarised, we proposed a temporary trial partial closure to help the community experience the area as public open space. This was not supported through feedback received during a second phase of community engagement.
A primary concern about the proposal was the impact on traffic and parking demand. To make finding an available parking space easier, we're planning to introduce parking sensors and dynamic signage, similar to the Church Street precinct, to optimise use of the public underground carpark located at 122 Beach Road, Sandringham.
