Great news is brewing for Acland Street and St Kilda! A series of new initiatives and establishments are set to breathe fresh life into this beloved area.
Revitalising the Local Business Scene:
Encouraging the local community to shop and spend time in Acland and Fitzroy Streets is essential. By reducing crime and improving the overall appeal of the area, we can attract families and individuals who currently prefer Elwood or Albert Park high streets. Filling up vacant shops and creating a safe, welcoming environment are critical steps in this revitalisation effort.
New Additions and Exciting Developments
- Culinary Delights: The recent opening of 'Jaggers', a Spanish cuisine gem, is a nod to the South American community enriching our city. This move is part of a broader vision to infuse Acland Plaza and St Kilda with a Latin flair, offering live music and a culture-rich atmosphere beyond just alcohol-based venues.
- Retail and Dining: The addition of 'Hello Harry', a classic burger joint, and 'Yo-bar', a frozen yoghurt and acai bowl spot, add to the diverse food options.
- Acland Court Shopping Centre: The newly renovated centre, complete with Tesla charging stations, is attracting more visitors. It’s home to a family-owned florist, homeware store, and the 'Wholefoods' store for organic produce. This success story exemplifies the benefits of thoughtful planning and experienced retail management.
- Cotton On: a new store for St Kilda, a casualwear chain featuring trendy fashions for men, women & children, plus home-decor items
Italian Flair in St Kilda
- Cicciolina: This modern Italian restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its contemporary setting and eclectic art.
- Piccolina Gelateria: A top-rated gelato shop using only the best seasonal ingredients.
- Sorsi e Morsi: Known for its authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
- i Carusi II: A hidden gem offering some of Melbourne's finest Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Cultural and Retail Tapestry
- Iconic Cakes and Multiculturalism: The historic cake shops of Acland Street are not just about desserts; they represent the multicultural fabric and entrepreneurial spirit of Australia.
- The Chakra Store: An iconic store among many independent clothing shops perfect for unique gifts.
- The Lady of St Kilda: This bar/restaurant is a testament to healthy Mediterranean cuisine, known for making their own Pita bread.
Diverse Dining Experiences
A Vision for Acland Street's Future
- Establish a Weekly Fish Market: Introducing a vibrant fish market at the plaza each week can become a focal point for fresh, local produce, attracting both residents and visitors.
- Urban Greening Initiative: Following Melbourne city's example, we propose a 'greening' project for Acland Street. This would involve planting more trees and creating green spaces, making the street more inviting and environmentally friendly.
- Professional Urban Retail Planning: It's time to utilise our ratepayers' funds more effectively by engaging with expert urban retail planners. This investment will ensure a more strategic and community-focused development of our retail spaces.
Ensuring A Vibrant Local Economy Throughout the Week
While occasional events like a thriving Sunday market or the Triangle live events bring temporary buzz, it's crucial that we create an environment where local businesses thrive all week long. The key is to cater to the needs and preferences of local residents, ensuring a steady flow of patronage and support.
Vacant Shop Program is coming to Acland Precinct
In partnership with the City Of Port Phillip, Project Management & Consultancy in conjunction with Ginnane & Associates, are activating vacant shopfronts with the goal of increasing the vibrancy and foot traffic of this this iconic street and community. The aim is to attract and foster new tenancies that become long-term leasing opportunities, to ensure the precinct remains a high performing business destination.
They're looking for applicants who have a genuine interest and knowledge of the St Kilda precinct and will complement, not compete, with other businesses.
Interested? Or know of someone who would be? Head here for more details, FAQs and application form https://plan1pmc.com/acland-street-activation
________________________
Note: this is only a sample of the varieties of Acland Street and does not do justice to all the other amazing traders! It's also worth pointing out that this story is not a paid advertisement.
