Frederick Street precinct project

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
• Where possible, this feedback will be included within the detailed design.

During construction, sections of Frederick Street and Mechanics Lane will be closed to vehicle traffic and access will be restricted. Council and the appointed contractor will work closely with affected residents and businesses to plan for access needs and minimise disruption.

A dedicated Project Manager will be appointed by the end of July 2025 to oversee the project and serve as the main point of contact for residents and businesses.

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.

August - December 2025

• Powercor works: Powercor will begin removing power poles and undergrounding the existing power supply. These works will involve planned power outages.
• Communications infrastructure: Powercor will undertake minor works to relocate fibre infrastructure will occur during the same period.
• Planning approvals: Council is currently seeking planning approvals for the streetscape works. These are not required for the Powercor works.
• Construction timeline: Streetscape construction will begin after Powercor works are completed. A Request for Tender was advertised in July 2025, with works expected to be completed by March 2027.
• Staged works: Construction will be delivered in segments. Specific staging and timing will be confirmed once a contractor is appointed.

July 2025

• Request for Tender advertised.