Background

In early 2020, as part of the Heidelberg Structure Plan project, we asked the local community what their values and aspirations were for living, working or visiting the Heidelberg centre. From this consultation it became clear that there was a lack of good quality, interesting and vibrant public spaces for people to enjoy. The devastating impacts of COVID-19 on local businesses and communities, was a further reason to trial a pop up park on the Council owned land outside of Leo’s Supermarket.

Made possible by Victorian State Government Outdoor Dining and Entertainment funding, the pop up park supports local cafes by creating a destination with programmed events and activities and, has turned what was a drab and uninviting walkway, into a place that people want to spend their time.

Your feedback helped guide the future of pop up parks in Banyule.

Before: A before photo of the Heidelberg pop up park After: An after photo of the Heidelberg pop up park

Our Approach

The park was designed as a modular, multi-purpose space with a mix of dining booths, bench seats, plants and anchored by a central event area. It also had to be COVID safe – so allowing for social distancing and hand sanitiser stations were important elements.

Launched in May 2021 and running until the end of August 2021, the pilot pop up park has hosted several talented performers, buskers, fitness sessions, a school fundraiser and even a shadow puppet workshop!