Council launches community engagement on Miles St and Dodds St Reserve expansion

The City of Melbourne is inviting the community to have its say on a proposal to expand Southbank’s Miles St and Dodds St Reserve with the first draft high-level concept now revealed.

The concept plan proposes to increase open space in the area by 690 square metres, providing a larger and improved “local backyard” for nearby residents.

Suggested features include new lawn areas, more trees and garden beds, and improved seating and picnic tables. 

Under the plans, the eastbound lane of Miles St would close, and about 12 car parks would be removed on the northern side of Miles St.

“Discontinuing Miles St would likely divert traffic turning left from Dodds St to Coventry St, resulting in a likely increase of eastbound traffic volumes in Coventry St,” the plans stated.

Following community feedback on the proposal, which is open until December 17, a feasibility study and designs for the project are expected to be completed next year with construction earmarked to begin in early 2025 at an estimated cost of $2.52 million.

According to the council, an early-stage design and feasibility investigation had determined that an expanded Miles and Dodds St Reserve would not be a suitable location for a fenced playground or dog off-leash area.

As reported by Southbank News in June, the proposed project was listed as part of the council’s 2023/24 draft budget in May and funded as part of its “Pocket Parks” program. It would also act as an ecological corridor for wildlife.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp recognised that the reserve was a “local backyard” for many residents, “which is why we’re looking to improve the area, proposing to nearly double the amount of open space available”.

“An expanded reserve would provide more opportunities for local and workers residents to relax, exercise and socialise, while also increasing our city’s canopy cover to keep our streets cool,” she said.

“We strongly encourage Southbank residents to head to Participate Melbourne to have their say on what they want to see in this park.” 

Community feedback will be incorporated in a final concept plan, which will be presented to council for consideration in the middle of next year.

To have your say, visit: participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/miles-dodds-street-reserve •

Caption: An artist’s impression of the proposed expanded reserve, looking east.