Forty Melbourne Laneways Are Set to Undergo a Major Art-Fuelled Revamp

Scattered around the city, Melbourne's laneways are one of its most famous features. They're usually a hive of activity, too. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, that obviously hasn't proven the case — but when life starts returning to normal, the Victorian Government has committed to sprucing up 40 Melbourne sites with new art, light installations and acoustic designs.

Laneways in the CBD, North Melbourne and Carlton will all receive a revamp, as part of a six-month project. And if you're wondering exactly what's in store, the government will be launching a callout for designers, music producers, light specialists, production designers and technicians — plus maintenance workers — to help give these spaces a major makeover.

Westwood Lane is the first site that'll get a revamp, courtesy of creative new lighting and new art, both of which are designed to help attract foot traffic. That's one of the main aims of the whole project, of course, alongside supporting workers in creative industries — and drawing attention to Melbourne's lesser-known laneway spots.

Also earmarked for revitalisation are Tattersalls Lane, Heffernan Lane, Flinders Court, Healeys Lane and McKillop Street, as well as North Melbourne's Raglan Street, Little Errol Street and Bakery Lane. In Carlton, Kelvin Place, Beard Place and Canada Lane have been identified as prime spots, too.

Announcing the project, Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley advised that the project will help "people from the creative industries to use their talents to create a legacy for the city that will be enjoyed by Melbourne's residents, workers and visitors for years to come".

For more information about Melbourne's laneway makeover, check out the official announcement.

Top image: Jacqui Szyrpallo via Flickr.