Frederick St and Mechanics Lane Redevelopment Project
Mount Alexander Shire Council is preparing for the commencement of the Frederick Street Precinct Project, a major streetscape upgrade that will transform Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane.
The aim of works is to create a vibrant public space that has improved pedestrian and cycling access, more seating, and opportunities for public art.
See the latest project updates below, or subscribe to receive them by email.
Project update
Date: 3 February 2026
Work has now started on the Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane streetscape redevelopment.
Powercor and their contractors are doing the underground work required to remove overhead powerlines. This phase of the project includes removing overhead lines, installing new underground cables, taking out several power poles, and adding a new electrical cabinet on Lyttleton Street.
During this time, some nearby homes and businesses will be switched from overhead to underground power. Powercor will contact anyone affected to let them know what’s happening and when.
There will be traffic changes and some temporary road closures on parts of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane while the works are underway.
Undergrounding is expected to finish by April 2026. After that, Council will start the civil construction phase to create a safer, more accessible public space.
Council’s Engineering team held an information session on 23 January 2026, and more sessions will be planned. We’ll share details once dates are confirmed.
We’ll keep the community updated as the project progresses.
Lisa Chesters MP and Mayor Rosie Annear talk about the Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane Redevelopment Project.
What is included in the works?
- At-grade (level) footpath and kerbs for many areas, to improve pedestrian access and amenity
- Upgrades to pavement surfaces
- A shared zone recognising cyclists and pedestrians as equal users of the street
- An increase in public safety measures through the addition of public lighting
- Street trees and other plantings throughout the precinct
- Stormwater drainage will be upgraded
- Reuse of existing heritage materials
- Undergrounding of existing overhead power
- Car parking
Project background
In May 2017, Mount Alexander Shire Council engaged Tract Consultants Pty Ltd to review the existing streetscape conditions and prepare a strategic plan to further enhance the town centre while preserving the rich history.
One of the key priorities was to undertake a streetscape upgrade of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane located between Mostyn Street and Templeton Street. The review of the existing infrastructure identified that road and footpath assets required reconstruction which was seen as an opportunity to implement Council’s streetscape plan as part of the works.
This project is for the design development of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane and will help Council to achieve the objectives as listed in the streetscape plan.
These works will be the first stage of a much larger vision for Castlemaine to be a vibrant and attractive centre which maintains and enhances its heritage values, serves the needs of local residents, attracts tourists and other visitors, and promotes the growth and viability of retail traders and other businesses.
The project is funded by a $12.19 million Federal Government grant through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP) and was identified as a priority in the Castlemaine Streetscape Plan and Design Standards 2020.
Community engagement
Local residents and businesses provided considerable feedback after public viewing of the concept plans for the Frederick Street precinct.
Feedback included:
- Improving pedestrian and cycling access along with landscaping and plantings
- Maintaining vehicle access and on street car parking
- Increasing seating and opportunities for public art
We have listened and incorporated feedback into the project where possible.
We will continue to update this page as the project progresses.
Road closures
During construction, sections of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane will be closed to vehicle traffic and access will be restricted. Council and the contractor will work closely with affected residents and businesses to plan for access needs and minimise disruption.
We understand that road closures and construction can be disruptive, and we are committed to working with you to ensure the process is as smooth as possible.
Stay informed
- Sign up to receive emails about project updates and road closures
- For queries or to discuss your specific access needs contact us at 03 5471 1700.
Project timeline
September 2025 - March 2027
- The construction tender was advertised in July 2025. The tender responses are currently being evaluated by Council.
- Planning approvals: Council is currently seeking planning approvals for the streetscape works. These are not required for the Communications or Powercor works.
- Communications infrastructure: Communications company, Vocus will undertake minor works to relocate fibre infrastructure.
- Powercor works: Powercor will begin removing power poles and undergrounding the existing power supply in February, 2026. These works will involve planned power outages.
- Construction timeline: Streetscape construction will begin after Powercor works are completed.
- Staged works: Construction will be delivered in segments. Specific staging and timing will be confirmed once a contractor is appointed.
- The construction works are expected to commence in 2026 and be completed by March 2027.
This project is funded by a $12.19 million Federal Government grant through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP).
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