Council recently secured $1 million in Federal Government Blackspot funding to deliver safety improvements and public space upgrades for Albert Street in Daylesford. The funding was announced by the Member for Ballarat, Catherine King MP, in response to the tragic accident that occurred in late 2023.

Community consultation regarding future use of the area was concluded in September 2025 and along with the objectives of the Future Hepburn’s Daylesford Structure Plan led to a preferred option to close Albert Street and increase the public open space at Burke Square.

The project will be delivered over a two-year period, commencing 1 July 2026, and aims to improve safety outcomes at the Albert Street and Midland Highway intersection, while enhancing the experience of residents and visitors.

The concept design for these works incorporates:

• Closure of Albert Street at the intersection with the Midland Highway

• Change of priority at the intersection with Duke Street

• Construction of a court bowl at the new termination of Albert Street and ancillary works

• Pedestrian access and movement improvements including construction of connecting footpaths and road crossings

• Access to existing businesses

• Creation of public greenspace

• Formalising parking on Albert and adjacent streets

View a copy of the concept design.

Council recognises that projects of this nature can raise concerns about impacts to local business, traffic movements and parking and existing vegetation. The 2025 consultation process showed a split in community sentiment and Council acknowledges that not all participants will be supportive of the outcome.

Council is committed to working closely with businesses, residents and stakeholders as the project progresses over the coming months. At this stage, no final decisions have been made regarding detailed landscaping treatments, infrastructure layouts or vegetation impacts. These items will be carefully assessed as part of the detailed design and approvals process and community feedback will remain an important part of the project as designs are refined and developed.

Council also acknowledges the importance of maintaining access to local businesses during future works and will continue to work collaboratively with traders to minimise disruption wherever possible.

Now that funding has been confirmed, Council will begin the next phase of the project, including:

• Appointment of a dedicated Project Manager

• Further engagement with traders, nearby landowners and the broader community

• Commence procurement for suitable experts to assist with the detailed design development and technical investigations

• Assessment of planning, traffic and environmental approval requirements

• Ongoing collaboration with State government agencies

Project updates and future engagement opportunities will be shared via this page.