Tonight’s Council meeting included the presentation of a community-based petition seeking improved street lighting for Woodgate Street and Boundary Street in Port Melbourne/Fishermans Bend, as well as the updated location for the Edwards Park public toilets.

Petition: Woodgate Street and Boundary Street Lighting

Woodgate Street and Boundary Street in Port Melbourne is located within the Montague Precinct and has seen significant residential development as part of the urban renewal of Fishermans Bend. Despite the proximity of these streets to the Montague tram stop, these streets have not been provided with public lighting required to support the transition from industrial use and into residential communities.

Tonight’s petition reinforces that Council will be undertaking a municipal wide assessment of our public lighting network, which will rectify deficiencies not only in Fishermans Bend, but also across the City of Port Phillip. Upgrades to public lighting is essential to improving community safety and permeability, particularly in accessing public transport.

In the interim, lighting improvements will be provided to improve the amenity of these streets in anticipation of the fuller assessment.

Edwards Park Public Amenities Location

The relocation and upgraded amenities for Edwards Park was one of first matters before the newly elected Council in 2024. Community was understandably concerned about the previously proposed location, as it would interrupt a significant area of the park that is often used for picnics and family events.

I worked alongside the neighbouring community to secure a re-evaluation of the originally proposed location and to re-explore other potentially viable sites. As a result, a potential location near the Trugo Club (location 5) and abutting Liardet Street (location 1a) in closer proximity Bay Street emerged as viable alternatives.

After speaking further and consulting with the local community, I supported location 1a which only will provide public toilet facilities for Edwards Park but also provides convenient access from Bay Street.

Agenda and minutes of the Port Phillip Council meetings are available at 2024 Meetings and Agendas – City of Port Phillip