Hamilton CBD Streetscape Revitalisation

Published on 11 December 2025

Southern Grampians Shire Council will progress the CBD Streetscape Revitalisation Project following consultation and support from the Project Advisory Group to not retain any of the London Plane Trees in Gray Street.

As part of Council’s commitment to undertake broader community and stakeholder engagement on this project, a CBD Streetscape Project Advisory Group was established to consider all information available, including a newly commissioned tree audit. A series of consultation sessions with the group have taken place over the last few months to support informed decision-making for this crucial CBD project.

After reviewing detailed Tree Impact Audit Reports, which outlined substantial impact to surrounding buildings, footpaths and road infrastructure, the Advisory Group has provided advice to Council to not retain any Plane Trees for Stage One (Gray Street) and undertake similar investigations for Stage Two and Three to help guide these stages of the project.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Cr and Advisory Group Chair, Afton Barber said the Advisory Group has thoroughly reviewed audit reports to provide their advice.

“While the Project Advisory Group came together with differing points of view on this issue, everyone in the room agreed that the trees are beautiful. However, after reading, hearing and thoroughly considering all of the advice presented, they have come to conclusion that the trees need to be removed,” said Cr Barber.

“This project is vital for the future of the Hamilton CBD in ensuring that we not only address major issues with our infrastructure such as footpaths, roads and disturbance of buildings, but also ensure we create a welcoming and visually appealing place to live.

“The trees have long been an iconic fixture within our streets, but their impact cannot be ignored. We need streets that are safe for residents and visitors of all abilities so they can feel confident to shop and socialise in Hamilton.”

Project Advisory Group Member Sarah Hope said the group had deliberated long and hard over the best outcome for the Hamilton CBD and community.

“As many in our town would know, I have been a very vocal supporter for the retention of the CBD trees and was the originator of the petition to save the trees,” said Ms Hope.

“I welcomed the opportunity to be part of the Project Advisory Group so I could ensure whatever the outcome, we would find a good compromise for the CBD. Having viewed the engineering evidence, I’ve had to concede some tree removal is inevitable due to the extensive damage to infrastructure.

“It’s now incumbent on me, together with other tree supporters, to advocate the replacement trees are of a hardy, deciduous variety; I will never support the installation of native trees in the heart of Gray Street at any point. This is a fair compromise for all those passionate about saving the London Planes compared with those who want them gone,” Ms Hope continued.

“I have also recommended that if the trees should be removed then this should occur in stages to ensure the success of the redesign first and help mitigate budget cash flow.

“The Advisory Board has been a fantastic opportunity to get local heads together, all voices have been heard and respected, and I believe we’ve come up with some wonderful and exciting ideas,” said Ms Hope.

The Advisory Group provided the below recommendations to Council in advocating for the items be considered in the next round of design concepts:

• To achieve a lush, vertical green streetscape through a combination of tree canopy, climbers, and structural greening.
• Integrate advanced soil and stormwater systems to ensure tree longevity and environmental performance.
• Reflect Hamilton’s heritage and identity through materiality, craft, and cultural storytelling, including First Nations recognition.
• Deliver human comfort through a mix of shade, greenery, and practical amenities.
• Utilise modular construction for efficiency and minimal disruption.
• Activate laneways and public spaces through lighting, art, and vegetation.

Ms Hope said being an advocate for community voice through the Advisory Group has provided the group with the opportunity to directly shape the CBD project with community interests at the fore.

“Providing us the opportunity to advise Council on this project has and will continue to allow us to develop a cohesive, timeless, and a distinctly Hamilton CBD - one that honours the past while confidently embracing the future.

“We look forward to continuing this working relationship with Council so the project is better informed on community needs to make the best decisions possible for our residents,” concluded Ms Hope.

Council will now provide direction to project consultants Group GSA to develop an updated concept design incorporating feedback from the Project Advisory Group, including proposals for replacement tree species, greening walls and alternative footpath treatments for Gray Street.

Council will then bring updated concept designs back to a Council meeting in 2026, to be followed by further community engagement.

Published on 08 August 2025

Four plane trees, two in the Hamilton CBD and two in Coleraine, will be removed in the coming weeks following detailed arborists investigations.

The four problematic street trees, at 99 Thompson Street and 70 Brown Street in Hamilton and two in Whyte Street Coleraine, were recently subject to non-destructive root investigations using hydro-excavation techniques. This process exposed the root systems beneath footpath and kerb and channel, revealing significant structural root mass and complex root entanglements.

The arborist found the tree at 99 Thompson Street presents a particularly large and intertwined root system. Any attempt to reinstate surrounding infrastructure would require extensive root severance, compromising the tree’s health and stability, and posing serious risk to nearby buildings and pedestrians.

Similar conditions were found at 70 Brown Street and the two trees in Whyte Street, Coleraine, where root growth has significantly impacted surrounding infrastructure.

In Coleraine, concerns raised by the Coleraine Community Development Association and local businesses have highlighted safety and accessibility issues with these particular trees, prompting further investigation and consultation.

Southern Grampians Shire Mayor Dennis Heslin said that the time has come to make a decision on these problematic trees.

“The kerb and channel at these locations has had to be replaced on multiple occasions already and every time we do this work, it costs ratepayers a significant amount.

“While the arborist report recommends root management and infrastructure redesign once again, to meet the Infrastructure Design Manual standards which we have to comply with, substantial root pruning must occur, which will critically undermine the structural integrity of the tree.

“If we were to redesign the kerb and channel around the tree root zone, we would significantly impact the traffic flow in major thoroughfares in our CBD.

“For these reasons, Council has made the call to remove these trees. This decision ensures the safety of our community and allows for the reinstatement of compliant stormwater, footpath, and road infrastructure,” Cr Heslin said.

Tree removal works will occur over the coming weeks and will be done with minimal disruption to trading and traffic.

Council remains committed to balancing urban greening with infrastructure safety and functionality. As per the Council resolution at the April 2025 meeting, the architects for the Hamilton CBD revitalisation project are currently preparing design options that include the retention of all but the most problematic plane trees in Gray Street. These designs will be presented to a future Council meeting. Alongside these designs, Council has also requested a strategy for the removal of the most problematic trees only and suggested replacement species for consideration. A Project Advisory Group, made up of community and business representatives, is being established to guide Council and provide feedback throughout this phase of the CBD revitalisation project.

Council welcomes people to head to Thompson and Brown Streets to view the trees before their removal, to gain a more fulsome understanding of the root systems of the plane trees.

“These trees still currently have their root systems exposed. I invite any interested community members to visit these trees over the next week and view just how complex the root systems are and how they are impacting on the infrastructure around them.

“I hope those that do will be able to better understand why we’ve had to come to this decision”, concluded Cr Heslin.

The arborist report is available to view on Council’s website at Public Documents Southern Grampians Shire Council.

Published on 14 August 2025

Southern Grampians Shire Council has resolved on the appointment of eight community members to the newly established CBD Streetscape Project Advisory Group at last night's ordinary Council meeting.

The CBD Revitalisation Project Advisory Group has been established following significant community interest in the project. The group, made up of local businesspeople and community members, will ensure local voices and perspectives are represented in the decision-making process on this issue, and others, throughout the design phase of this very important project.

The group will be chaired by Councillor Afton Barber, who said Council was pleased with the strong response to the Expression of Interest process.

“The calibre of applicants received for the CBD Advisory group was outstanding, and we thank all those who took the time to express their interest in contributing to the project,” said Cr Barber.

“We had 14 people put their hands up to be involved in the group, which was really pleasing and meant we had to conduct an interview process to determine which community members to appoint to the advisory group.

“Those who have been appointed have come from varied backgrounds and experience in community, business and governance and provide a really diverse and strong representation of the Southern Grampians community.

The appointed members are:

• Justin Slade
• Keven Quinn
• Elizabeth Hurley
• Carly Behncke
• Sarah Hope
• Colin Dunkley
• Coralie Coulson
• Paul McCallum

“While there were a number of technically skilled and knowledgeable applicants, the role of the advisory group is not to provide technical expertise to the project but to offer advice and guidance on community and business engagement, project implementation, timing and communications. We feel we have a great mix of experience and perspectives within the group to enable a balanced representation and above all, a willingness to work together to create a positive outcome for the Southern Grampians community.”

“The advisory group will go beyond a single issue of the trees and will provide a community voice and perspective for the CBD Revitalisation project, acting as a vital bridge between Council and residents. This project has a very wide scope, and we want this group to give us a community perspective on everything from parking bays to footpaths to outdoor furniture,” concluded Cr Barber.

The newly appointed CBD Revitalisation group will meet over the coming weeks. To view the Hamilton CBD Streetscape project, please visit our website.

To keep up to date on this project and all Council news, consider signing up to our monthly newsletter.

Published on 12 June 2025

Local voices are set to play a key role in shaping Hamilton’s future, with the establishment of a Project Advisory Group as part of the Hamilton CBD Streetscape Project.

This new group reflects Southern Grampians Shire Council’s commitment to community collaboration, ensuring the new streetscape design and implementation reflects the needs and objectives of the community.

At the April 2025 Council Meeting, Concept Plans for the Hamilton CBD Streetscape Project were presented, prompting valuable discussions and a recommendation to establish a Project Advisory Group to guide the project.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the Project Advisory Group will operate under a clearly defined Terms of Reference framework, approved by Council to ensure clarity and transparency, and will be chaired by Councillor Afton Barber.

“The Terms of Reference outlines the Project Advisory Group’s purpose, scope, and procedures, emphasising its role as an advisory body. While the group will not have decision-making authority, its insights and advice will play a pivotal role in shaping the design phases and implementation of the project,” Cr Heslin said.

Membership of the Group will include representatives from local businesses and community members through and across the Southern Grampians Shire. An Expression of Interest process will be undertaken to determine Group members.

“The establishment of the Project Advisory Group reflects Council’s genuine commitment to ensuring this Project is a success and meets the needs of the community and businesses. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the CBD Streetscape Project will be guided by those who know and care for Hamilton deeply - its residents and business owners,” Cr Heslin concluded.

Council invites nominations from local businesses and community members who wish to contribute their expertise, insights, and passion to this exciting project. Nominations will open Monday 16 June and will be open until 9am Monday 30 June via our website Hamilton CBD Streetscape Revitalisation | Engage Southern Grampians

For more information about the Project Advisory Group or the Hamilton CBD Streetscape Project, please visit Council's website.

Published on 14 April 2025

Southern Grampians Shire Council resolved to seek further investigation on the state of the CBD London Plane Trees, to form a CBD Revitalisation project advisory group, and to implement a project management and maintenance strategy at last Wednesday night’s ordinary Council Meeting.

After consideration, Council accepted a resolution to further investigate the London Plane Trees and their impact upon the CBD. The decision was made to slow down the project to ensure complete and thorough consultation can be completed.

Councillors have asked the architect to revise the design to keep all but the most problematic Plane trees. The updated plan will also include details on how to remove and replace the troubled trees. To help guide the project, a CBD Project Advisory Group will be formed with representatives from local businesses, the wider community, Councillors and Council officers.

Recognising the importance of a thriving local economy, Council has also called for a project management strategy that ensures minimal disruption to businesses during construction. Council has asked officers to prepare a fifty-year maintenance strategy for the Plane trees, to ensure long-term sustainability and amenity in the CBD with a clear direction to retain existing Plane trees wherever possible.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the decision to seek further clarification on the CBD trees provides Council with an informed way forward.

“I would like to thank each and every person who spoke at Council meetings, provided feedback online or got involved to have their voices heard on this issue. This was a contentious issue that could easily have turned combative, but those championing these causes carried themselves with dignity and respect for one another. One thing to take away from this is that people really care about this town. We have heard not only from residents and business owners, but former residents, tourists and well-wishers from across the nation. It’s more than a little flattering to see how much love there is out there for Hamilton.

“We’ve consulted extensively with our community around the draft concept plans and what that would mean for the development of the Hamilton CBD including engaging our local business sector,” said Cr Heslin.

“Through this process, it’s become clear that this is not a decision that we need to rush. This is a highly emotional issue that deserves to be fully considered. We have asked that the architect revise the design to keep all but the most problematic Plane trees.

“To help keep everything on track, a CBD Project Advisory Group will be formed with representatives from across the community. A draft of how the group will operate will be presented to a Councillor Briefing in May.

“Council has also called for a project management strategy that ensures minimal disruption to businesses during construction. This was something that local businesses made clear was a concern and it’s something we want to get right first time.

“The damage the current trees cause to the infrastructure cannot be ignored with tree root systems undermining buildings, causing innumerable plumbing issues including overflowing toilets and sewage pipe issues, cracking glass in windows, leaves blocking spouts and affecting drainage of roofs, building cracking and defects which is an ongoing cost and concern to businesses and Council.

“By seeking further information from experts, this will allow the problematic trees to be identified, and a targeted plan developed to potentially remove the ones that need to go and maintain the ones that can be supported.

Southern Grampians Shire Council was presented with a public deputation at last night’s meeting from concerned business owners requesting the tree replacement as well as the consideration for reduction of future project impacts.

Cr Heslin said local business feedback was hard to ignore, “The deputation presented to us last night provided Councillors with important insight from those businesses who spend most of their time in the CBD.

“Our business owners see better than anybody the impact the tree damage has on their infrastructure and the maintenance required for their buildings to remain functional and safe for shoppers.

The CBD Revitalisation project will be broken up into three phases. Package one will see works in Gray Street, from Thompson Street to Brown Street, including roundabouts at both intersections and including the redevelopment of the plaza in front of the Commonwealth Bank.

The concept plans for package one provides recommendations to upgrade the existing road pavement and replace kerb and channel, footpaths, street furniture, lighting and trees with contemporary robust and sustainable elements that will both be aesthetically attractive and easy to maintain.

A variety of other environmental and sustainability considerations will be considered as part of the next stages of the project with a widened and lengthened footpath central activity zone, with better facilities for pedestrians and improved facilities for persons with disabilities.

The concept plans also include areas for public art which will be considered further as part of the Detailed Design Stage. The existing red brick footpath paving is set to be removed and replaced with a pallet of stone paving, laid on a reinforced concrete slab.

“We are attempting to activate huge changes in the Hamilton CBD which isn’t taken lightly,” said Cr Heslin. “We want to create an exciting and attractive CBD for residents to love and that makes visitors stay. To do that, we have had to make hard decisions around tree replacement. The community gave such enthusiastic feedback that we may have to find a compromise for this project.”

Following the Council Briefing on 29 January, the Concept Plans for package one were released for public consultation. As part of that consultation, a business engagement session was held in the Hamilton Cinema.

The designs were also available in the CBD shopfront, the Hamilton Library, Council’s Brown Street Customer Service Centre, and online via the Council website during the consultation period. All feedback was considered including a community petition which was presented to the March Council Meeting to advocate for tree retention.

“It is vital that Council continues to work towards achieving the vision of an upgraded civic streetscape that has a positive outcome for our residents and visitors. This will be achieved through the proposed upgrades to our CBD.

"We will continue to work with the community and local businesses to ensure impact of the revitalisation works are as minimal as possible while the project outcomes leave a lasting impressing,” concluded Cr Heslin.

For more information regarding the Hamilton CBD Revitalisation Project, visit our website. To stay connected to all things Council, consider subscribing to our monthly newsletter.

Southern Grampians Shire Council is excited to invite the community to help shape the future of Hamilton’s CBD as part of a major streetscape revitalisation project. The Hamilton CBD Revitalisation Project will focus on the CBD streetscape between Kennedy and Cox; and French and Lonsdale Streets. This project, which will be completed in three stages, aims to create a more vibrant, welcoming and accessible town centre and will explore options to improve public spaces, introduce more public art and signage, parking, and improved trees and landscaping.

Council is now seeking feedback on concept plans for the first stage of the project, Gray Street between Brown and Thompson Streets, including the roundabouts.

In this stage, the current central zebra crossing is proposed to be retained and raised, with the existing central widened footpath area to be lengthen. Feature trees, new garden beds, public art and new street furniture are proposed in this area to provide a vibrant central activity zone. The two other existing informal narrow road crossings are proposed to be removed. The existing red brick footpath paving is to be removed and replaced with stone paving laid on a reinforced concrete slab.

The Commonwealth Bank forecourt will be revamped with new street furniture, landscaping and new public art installation and the Thompson Street and Brown Street roundabouts will also see improvements, with refreshed garden beds and new street furniture.

The current London Plane trees throughout the CBD are causing issues and risks for Council due to dropping leaves, allergens and invasive roots extending well beyond other species and into private properties and drainage systems. For these reasons, they are proposed to be removed as part of the project as each package is reconstructed and replaced with a more suitable, semi-mature species.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin is eager to see the transformation take shape.

“The Hamilton CBD is long overdue for an upgrade. We are keeping community at the front of mind throughout this process. We want to create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and welcoming for everyone.

“These plans have been developed following previous consultation with the community and we’re now seeking your feedback on what’s proposed. I encourage everyone to get involved in this consultation process so we can make sure we get it right,” concluded Cr. Heslin.

A pop-up consultation space will be open at 107 Gray Street in Hamilton from Wednesday 5 February to Friday 7 February 10-7pm and Saturday 8 February 9-12pm, where residents can drop in and chat with Council staff. Feedback can also be provided online until Monday 17 February at Hamilton CBD Streetscape Revitalisation | Engage Southern Grampians.

There will also be a dedicated business session at Hamilton Cinema on Tuesday 4 February from 6.00 to 7.30pm to discuss the project with local traders and the long-term benefits for our shopping district.

For further information about this project, please visit our website or give us a call at (03) 5573 0444. You can stay up to date with Council news and projects by subscribing to our monthly newsletter.