Yarra City Council has adopted the final Linear Parklands Masterplan, a 20-year vision for the much-loved green corridor stretching along the former Inner Circle Railway Line, following an extensive round of community consultation undertaken in partnership with Merri-bek City Council.
Comprising more than six hectares and stretching 3.5km across North Fitzroy and Princes Hill and Carlton North, the Linear Park consists of six classified open space reserves within the City of Yarra and one reserve in the City of Merri-bek. Together it represents the longest continuous stretch of open parklands in Yarra, containing many historical, cultural and environmental points of interest, as well as being a prominent commuter cycling corridor.
"This will quite possible the longest and newest bike lane in the history of Yarra. More trees, more playgrounds," said Yarra City Council Mayor, Stephen Jolly.
"It will be the biggest upgrade of a park since the Edinburgh Gardens. It's breathtaking when you think of it like that."
The Masterplan sets out a long-term vision for the corridor as a safe, equitable and ecologically rich parkland that strengthens the connection to Wurundjeri Country.
It is supported by five guiding principles, including enhancing Capital City Trail safety and comfort, conserving green space, celebrating railway heritage and strengthening habitat connections.
Balancing Heritage, Ecology and Heavy Use
The Linear Parklands carry layers of cultural, ecological and historical significance—from Traditional Owner stewardship to remnants of the Inner Circle Railway Line opened in 1888, to the community activism that prevented the corridor's development in the 1960s.
Today, the parklands provide varied facilities including four playgrounds, community gardens, neighbourhood houses, conservation zones and informal recreation areas. They also host the busiest active-transport corridor in Victoria: the section of the Capital City Trail that passes through the reserves.
Increasing volumes of bikes and pedestrians have led to safety concerns and confusion at intersections, prompting calls for clearer design standards and improved user experience—issues the masterplan seeks to address.
You can view the Linear Parklands Masterplan at the link below:
View or download the Linear Parklands Masterplan [ PDF, 27.79 MB]
