A vibrant and connected future is on the horizon for central Coburg, with Merri-bek City Council revealing a bold new concept plan designed to transform the heart of the suburb into a thriving hub of housing, business, culture and green space.
The draft plan, titled ‘Coburg is Here’, sets out a long-term vision for central Coburg as a lively, inclusive destination with leafy streets, public spaces and diverse housing options. The proposal builds on more than 15 years of planning and community consultation, incorporating feedback from more than 1,300 residents collected during 2023 and 2024.
At the heart of the concept is a new $60 million library and piazza, surrounded by upgraded streets and laneways including Waterfield Street, Victoria Street, Louisa Street and Russell Street.
The plan proposes around 1,000 new homes of varying sizes, over 8,000 square metres of new business and retail space, and more than 2,000 square metres of office space to encourage local employment.
Fifteen buildings are proposed across six development sites, ranging from three to 18 storeys, while over 6,000 square metres of new public space would include a major piazza, pocket parks, courtyards and a neighbourhood park. Around 900 car spaces are also planned within walking distance of key destinations.
Merri-bek City Council Mayor Helen Davidson said the plan builds on Coburg’s strong community character and recent infrastructure investment.
“Central Coburg is already vibrant, but now is the time to maximise its potential as a cultural, economic and retail hub while providing family-friendly housing and retaining its rich character,” Cr Davidson said.
“With the level crossings gone, and a new health hub and state-of-the-art library on the way, this is the time for Council to guide investment in housing, shopping and green spaces so that more people can live in this fantastic community that is only a short train ride from the Melbourne CBD.”
Community consultation on the ‘Coburg is Here’ concept is now open until 18 December. Locals can view the proposal and share their feedback online at conversations.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/central-coburg
