Council funding allocated to University Square

Stage Two of University Square is on track for delivery, with the City of Melbourne allocating funds to the project in its draft budget and progressing with the closure of Barry and Leicester streets in Carlton.

The council initially endorsed the original master plan for University Square in 2016 to support park expansion and improvements. Stage One works were completed in 2019.

In 2023, an updated plan was released outlining the details of Stage Two and addressing the anticipated impact of the future underground Parkville Station, which is expected to open in 2025.

The second stage will provide more than 2500 square metres of public open space for recreational and social activities. It will also feature new garden beds and lawn, street furniture, drinking fountains, picnic tables and bike hoops.

With the Victorian Government’s Metro Tunnel Project expected to be completed this year, the council is now in a position to begin delivering the remainder of the master plan.

In the 2025–26 draft budget, $3 million has been set aside for the square, and the council is looking to proceed with the closure of Barry and Leicester streets.

The sections of road proposed to be discontinued have been under occupation since 2018 and are no longer considered necessary for use as roads.

Discontinuing these roads will remove their road status, enabling the council to manage the land as open space and supply the remaining elements of the master plan.

Following statutory engagement, the council will be briefed on the outcomes and will seek approval to discontinue the roads in June. •