Construction planning for Bentleigh’s Eat Street is underway following the proposal’s finalisation by Glen Eira City Council.

An initiative from Council’s Bentleigh Structure Plan, McGregor Coxall collaborated with BKK Architecture and Lucid Projects to design a new unified plaza that transforms the existing public space into an activated, pedestrian-friendly area with greenery and seating, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Nick Griffin, Associate Director and Co-Studio Leader of McGregor Coxall’s Melbourne Studio, says the creation of a flexible space will foster a viable year-round programme of community events and street activities.

“Successful plazas and streetscapes possess the phenomenal capacity to provide a host of simultaneous benefits, including economic catalysation, crime deterrence, communal gathering, ecological respite, and event facilitation,” said Griffin.

“Converting the project area into a great public realm will allow it to grow as a community heart and will instil a sense of pride and shared ownership amongst Glen Eira’s diverse set of community members.”

Integrating streetscape and community spaces through Vickery Street, Centre Road and Bentleigh Plaza, the proposed works will introduce necessary public amenities such as shade and wind protection, support for a range of passive recreation activities, and techniques and devices to activate edges and stimulate Bentleigh’s emerging café and restaurant culture.

Hardy native vegetation, tree cover, raingardens, and an optimised Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) strategy underpin the landscape strategy, creating a resilient and biodiverse thoroughfare for residents, traders and shoppers.

Feature lighting makes the area safer at night while pedestrian connections will be upgraded with a new crossing and pathways proposed.

Stage one works will begin with the Bentleigh Rotunda area in 2021.

You can read more about the project here.