Smith Street is a shopping street in Collingwood (LAPM 12) and Gold (LAPM 10). It’s a great street that can be even better. Smith Street can be better for business by becoming the core of a 20-minute neighbourhood where local residents regularly visit, shop and linger.
Call to action – complete the survey on engage.vic.gov.au
The state government is planning to build level access tram stops on Smith Street (and Gertrude Street). They’re asking for feedback on engage.vic.gov.au. Please show your support, and it’s a great opportunity to ask for wider footpaths and protected bike lanes, alongside the new tram stops.
Existing conditions
Smith Street suffers from a lack of trees, space for footpath dining, level access tram stops or separated bicycle lanes.
Previous assessments
As part of the planned re-write of the Yarra Planning Scheme, the City of Yarra published a background paper on access and movement in 2015.
Yarra’s Encouraging and Increasing Walking Strategy 2005 identified that:
Opportunities
Smith Street can attract more patronage becoming the core of a 20-minute neighbourhood, with wider footpaths, separated bicycle lanes and level-access tram stops. Parking for shoppers can be increased by relocating bays to the first 5-10 spots on each side street, with the first spot reserved for deliveries.
The key is to understand that on-street parking isn’t the answer – if Smith Street is attractive then people will find a way to get there.
Small improvements
Council can make small improvements at many intersections, to reallocate space for people, as was done at Easey Street:
How you can help
You can help by appearing on the Streets Alive Yarra website as a champion for your local street, neighbourhood, or school.