Heart Foundation urges City of Melbourne to green light Elizabeth Street improvement

The City of Melbourne announced today that Councillors will consider a planning permit that gives a green light for improvements to the southern end of Elizabeth Street.

The proposed upgrades between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane would create much-needed space for pedestrians, beautify the streetscape and improve flood resilience. If approved, construction would take place later this year

Comment by Heart Foundation CEO Victoria, Kellie-Ann Jolly:

“We urge Councillors to green light this Elizabeth Street redevelopment to improve walkability and create a pleasant public space for our city’s workers, visitors and residents,” Ms Jolly said.

“As we live through the COVID-19 pandemic and adjust our lives to its restrictions, we have come to place greater value on healthy, pedestrian-friendly, green urban spaces in our cities.

“Walkable public spaces that allow a degree of social distancing may be even more important as we move towards life after lockdown. This project would see a doubling of footpath space and reduced congestion along the southern end of Elizabeth Street, encouraging more people to walk and use this space.

“Yet even before this pandemic, four in five Victorian adults were not active enough for good heart health. There is clear evidence built environments that encourage physical and social activity give rise to happier, healthier people.

“Walking is at the heart of active living. It is safe, free and easy to incorporate into our daily routine. Greener urban spaces like this initiative will encourage more people to get active and help reduce their risks for chronic diseases, like heart disease.” Through our Healthy Active by Design website, the Heart Foundation has encouraged planners, developers and urban designers to consider ways to increase walking, cycling and active transport opportunities and improve neighbourhood liveability in our towns, cities and regional areas.

Media enquiries
Debora McInnes, Senior Media Advisor
M: 0423 827 697 E: debora.mcinnes@heartfoundation.org.au