Melbourne CBD’s ‘ugly-duckling’ set to be transformed

One of Melbourne’s busiest thoroughfares, Elizabeth Street, could receive a much-needed facelift.

Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle this morning spoke about the council’s plans to reinvigorate the bustling CBD street.   

“It’s a very beautiful vista, and then your eyes drop to street-level, and it’s pretty grotty,” Mr Doyle said outside Melbourne Town Hall.

Mr Doyle said the reinvigoration was a “chance to make a very beautiful entry in to the city.”

More than 400,000 people are estimated to use Elizabeth Street on a daily basis.

Improved access for pedestrians is the main focus of the upgrade, Mr Doyle said.

Planned changes include the creation of a one-way street, and extended tram lines. A green pedestrian walk-way is also expected.

There are also hopes the re-design improves the issues arising from an increase of homeless people sleeping in the precinct.

The council is expected to consider the upgrades with the Future Melbourne Committee early next week.