What is Carlton Residents’ Association about? And what does it do?

The Carlton Residents’ Association’s agenda for Carlton is underpinned by the values of “contribution, communication and connection”, while our priorities are focused on heritage, planning, greening and mobility.

The Carlton Residents’ Association (CRA) advocates for the residents of Carlton (defined by postcode 3053) and those who wish to preserve all that is good about Carlton (Friends of Carlton). Representation is made at community level and to government at all levels.

Representatives have been involved with:

• City of Melbourne – Carlton Parking Review.
• Supporting La Mama with their forward planning and redirection.
• Meeting with the Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny.
• The University Square proposal.
• Redesigning of Lygon St in conjunction with Carlton Inc.
• Presenting the Lord Mayoral Election Forum with Carlton Inc.
• University of Melbourne Estate Master Plan.
• Support and involvement in the opening of the Lygon Street Market in Argyle Square.
• University of Melbourne sponsored neighbourhood meetings.
• City of Melbourne – greening proposal.
• Advocating for affordable housing.
• Presidents of residents’ groups meetings with City of Melbourne.
• Friends of the Queen Victoria Market.
• Police Community Consultation (PCC). Crime and safety concerns in Carlton and other inner-city areas are raised and communication with the local Police is fostered. Safety cameras were installed in Lygon St.

CRA and Kathleen Syme

A past notable achievement for the community was through advocation at several levels to help create the Kathleen Syme Community Centre and Library, now 10 years old. Greta Bird and Jackie Watts (CRA members) worked tirelessly towards this outcome over many years.

The priorities

Heritage

Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens – World Heritage Environs Area (WHEA)

Ensuring that our heritage protections remain strong has been a critical focus. Heritage controls in Carlton are closely monitored to ensure that the distinctive architecture and cultural significance of our area is preserved for future generations.

The aim, to balance development with the preservation of what makes Carlton special. CRA works closely with Friends of the Carlton Gardens and has approached the council with ideas for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

Planning

Recent years have not had the same planning pressures as the past when CRA objected to developments such as those in Drummond and Rathdowne streets. However, remaining vigilant in monitoring inappropriate development is always needed to preserve the character and heritage of Carlton. Covering these issues demands much time and commitment from the planning committee.

Greening

CRA will continue to support the council in implementing the Carlton Urban Forest Precinct strategy. The greening of the suburb and where appropriate the part closure of streets for pocket parks is a priority.

CRA will therefore advocate for the partial closure of Faraday St between Cardigan and Swanston streets to support the functioning of the Kathleen Syme Community Library as a community hub.

Mobility

With a commitment to integrated, sustainable and accessible mobility the aim is to see the promotion of cycling, walking public transport and the introduction of traffic calming measures in Carlton.

Read more about CRA: carltonresidents.org.au

Contact CRA: [email protected]

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