Melbourne’s laneways renewal project starts

Work has begun on the project to revitalise Melbourne’s laneways as the Central Business District (CBD) prepares to welcome back more workers, shoppers and tourists over summer.

At Russell Place local artist Kaff-eine is working on a signature design that along with an audio element by local band Screensaver will enliven a walk down the lane.

Russell Place is the first of 40 CBD, Carlton and North Melbourne laneways that will receive a makeover through a program supported by the Victorian Government’s Working for Victoria initiative.

More than 150 creatives – designers, music producers, light specialists, technicians and more – are being recruited with works to begin soon on revivals of Barry Place, Bright’s Place, Park Street, Finlay Alley, Hughs Alley, Smythe Lane, Kirks Lane, Crombie Lane, Goldie Place and Westwood Place.

The new-look lanes will draw people into the city and stimulate activity in local shops, bars and cafes as restrictions on office-based work and gatherings are gradually lifted, guided by public health advice.

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