Merri-bek

Planning for thriving communities

About

The Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres Program is focused on locating more homes close to train stations and tram lines that have the highest capacity now and into the future.

Plans for the Merri-bek centres have been finalised and approved by the Minister for Planning, which means the planning changes are now in place.

The Merri‑bek train and tram zone activity centres are located around the Brunswick and Coburg train stations. The Brunswick (Sydney Road) activity centre will benefit from the planned removal of eight level crossings on the Upfield Line and the construction of two modern and accessible stations in Brunswick.

These centres are well‑serviced by public transport, with train services connecting to metropolitan Melbourne, including the city centre, Royal Park and North Melbourne.

A connected network of bus and tram routes service each of the activity centres and provide access to a range of destinations including Moonee Ponds, Clifton Hill and Preston, and the wider western, northern and eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The Coburg activity centre, for example, has a major bus and tram interchange at the intersection of Sydney Road and Bell Street, serviced by eight bus routes and a tram line.

Visit our Train and Tram Zone Activity Centre Program interactive map to find out where the planning scheme has changed.

The vision for Merri-bek

Brunswick (Sydney Road) and Coburg are growing into even more vibrant places to live, work and spend time. Connected along Sydney Road, they form a lively, multicultural community where people come together.

As more people choose to call these centres home, new housing will be encouraged to fit the local character, sitting comfortably alongside heritage buildings, leafy streets, open spaces and parks. The community will also benefit from upgraded public places and much‑loved facilities like libraries, parks and pools.

With the Upfield train line, bike path and the Route 19 tram running through the centres, as well as future Brunswick level crossing removals, it will be easier than ever to get around in a safe and sustainable way. People will still enjoy easy access to nearby natural areas such as Merri Creek and Gilpin Park – important places for walking, relaxing and connecting with nature.

Infrastructure investment

The quality of the places we live in affects all aspects of our lives – how we live and work, connect with others and get around.

There has already been significant investment in Merri-bek. We know that there will be greater demand for services and infrastructure like public transport and open spaces as more people move in, with improvements needed to support the growing population.

Also, the Brunswick level crossing removal project will improve public and active transport, unlock new open space and enable future enhancements to the Upfield line.

Our proposed infrastructure contributions plans will require developers to pay a standardised contribution of $11,350 for each new home, or equivalent charge for an office or similar building, which will be used to invest in improvements to infrastructure and facilities for the local community. Find out more on the How we’re planning page.