Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane Streetscape Redevelopment

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Mount Alexander Shire Council has commenced the Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane Streetscape Upgrade, a major project that will transform the heart of Castlemaine.

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.

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Road closures - until January 2027:
Frederick Street is closed to vehicles between Mostyn Street and Templeton Street.
Please be aware that there may also be some occasional reduction to the availability of parking along Templeton Street.

Where are we now?

21 August 2026 – Over the coming weeks, work will increase at the northern end of Frederick Street.

The Town Hall will be closed for several weeks while crews install new drainage and electrical services in front of the building. It will reopen for two events during this time: the Training and Skills Fair on 2 September and the Spring Ball on 12 September

At the southern end of Frederick Street, crews will continue drainage works, stabilise the footpath foundation and carry out road paving over the next two weeks.

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What are we doing?

Council is conducting 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.

Works will include:

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

The construction works are on track to be completed by March 2027.

Impacts during works

Frederick Street is currently closed to vehicles between Mostyn Street and Templeton Street.

Council and the contractor will work closely with affected residents and businesses to plan for access needs and minimise disruption. If you have any concerns, please get in touch with the project team via Emir Ameti, Project Manager at e.ameti@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

Frederick Street redevelopment precinct concept

Project background

In 2017, Mount Alexander Shire Council engaged Tract Consultants to develop a strategic plan to enhance Castlemaine’s town centre while preserving its heritage character.

A key priority was upgrading Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane between Mostyn Street and Templeton Street. With existing road and footpath infrastructure requiring renewal, Council identified an opportunity to deliver key streetscape improvements aligned with the Castlemaine Streetscape Plan and Design Standards 2020.

This project will progress the detailed design of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane and represents the first stage of a broader vision to create a vibrant, accessible and attractive town centre that supports residents, visitors and local businesses while celebrating Castlemaine’s heritage.

Community engagement

Council received valuable feedback from residents and businesses during public consultation on the Frederick Street concept plans. Key themes included: