Public Notice: Central City Road Closures and St Kilda Safety Declaration

Central City Road Closures and Tram Service Disruptions

Major infrastructure works are set to impact travel across the Melbourne CBD this Sunday, 15 February 2026. The intersection of Bourke and Spencer Streets is currently subject to a full road closure as crews undertake an intensive 24-hour maintenance blitz to replace aging tram tracks and road surfaces. Significant detours are in place for both motorists and pedestrians, with traffic being diverted via King Street and Wurundjeri Way. Commuters should be aware that Route 86 and Route 96 trams are operating in sections, with no tram services running between Queen Street and Spencer Street until the works conclude later this month.

In addition to the Bourke Street works, watermain renewal activities on Flinders Lane between William Street and King Street are scheduled to reach a major milestone this evening. A full road closure remains in effect from 9:00 pm to 5:00 am. Motorists in the western suburbs should also prepare for disruptions on Geelong Road in Footscray, where asphalt resurfacing has led to eastbound closures between Gordon and Droop Streets.

Victoria Police: Designated Area in St Kilda

Victoria Police has issued a public notice regarding a 'Designated Area' declaration for the St Kilda Entertainment Precinct, active this Sunday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Under the Control of Weapons Act 1990, police officers and Protective Service Officers (PSOs) have been granted expanded powers to stop and search individuals, vehicles, and personal belongings for weapons within the designated zone. The area includes all public spaces bounded by Acland Street, Barkly Street, Fitzroy Street, and The Esplanade. These measures are intended to ensure public safety during high-activity weekend periods, and visitors are requested to cooperate with any directions from uniformed officers.

Health Advisories: Measles Risk and Heat Safety

The Victorian Department of Health maintains an active health advisory following an increase in travel-related measles cases across the state. Residents who have visited high-traffic public sites are encouraged to monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and the characteristic red rash that typically begins on the face. Health officials emphasize that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection and urge anyone experiencing symptoms to call their medical provider ahead of time to prevent further transmission.

Additionally, with February's signature warmth, authorities remind the public to adhere to extreme heat safety protocols. This includes staying hydrated, checking on vulnerable neighbors, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the peak temperature window of the afternoon.

Final Call for Community Participation

Today marks the final deadline for two significant civic processes. Residents are reminded to complete the following before midnight:

• City Floral Emblem: Cast your final vote to select the local native flower that will officially represent the City of Melbourne.
• Land Tax Notifications: Property owners must lodge notifications for the Vacant Residential Land Tax for any qualifying properties that were vacant during the 2025 calendar year.