This report shares community feedback on the temporary pop-up space in Forrest Street, Spotswood.

Between March 17 and April 13, 2025, we conducted an online survey to gather feedback from the community on the Forrest Street pop-up. Below are the results of this consultation.

1 star = negative, 2 stars = somewhat negative, 3 stars = no impact, 4 stars = somewhat positive, 5 stars = positive.

Responses received: 108

Responses received: 118

The feedback revealed a mix of opinions, with some community members valuing the initiative while others expressed concerns.

Since this was an open text field, we have condensed the responses into key themes and categories. The main themes identified include community involvement, accessibility, design aspects, and the future of similar spaces.

1. Community gathering and atmosphere

• Some respondents appreciated the space for community gathering, particularly during organised events.
• The pop-up was seen as beneficial for bringing people together and supporting local traders.
• It was viewed as a welcoming spot in Spotswood where people could relax, unwind, and enjoy a break during the day.
• However, multiple respondents felt that the space remained largely unused outside of event days, questioning its overall value.

2. Accessibility and traffic flow

• Several respondents noted that the pop-up blocked Forrest Street, causing inconvenience to residents and taking up car spaces.
• Some felt that the street closure was unnecessary and disruptive, particularly given the small number of events held.
• Others believed the space created a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment, reducing vehicle traffic in the area.

3. Economic and business impact

• Some respondents believed the pop-up mainly benefited restaurants and cafés rather than the wider community.
• Concerns were raised about the financial investment, with suggestions that funds could have been better spent on permanent improvements, such as enhancing nearby parks.
• A few respondents highlighted that while events increased foot traffic, the space was not consistently active enough to justify a long-term closure.

4. Design and aesthetic considerations

• The space was described by some as barren and uninviting, with suggestions to look at Ballarat Street in Yarraville for inspiration.
• Some respondents felt the design lacked greenery and shade, making it an unappealing place to spend time.
• There were calls for a more thoughtfully designed space that could integrate better with the existing urban environment.

5. Long-term use and future planning

• A recurring theme in the feedback was that the pop-up provided little long-term value, with several respondents preferring investments in permanent infrastructure.
• Some suggested that a more suitable location could be found elsewhere in Spotswood, rather than the existing site.
• Others supported a seasonal or event-based activation rather than a continuous closure for several months.

6. Execution and public perception

• While some respondents liked the idea of a pop-up, they felt the execution of it was poor.
• Concerns were raised about whether the initiative reflected broader community priorities, with some seeing it as catering to a small minority.
• A number of respondents stated that they saw no value in the pop-up and that it should not continue in its current form.

Responses received: 118

This open text field allowed respondents to share detailed feedback, which we have summarised into key themes and categories.

The insights highlight how the space was utilised, identify areas for improvement, and offer suggestions to inform future planning.

1. Shade and shelter

• Many respondents expressed a need for increased shade, particularly during warmer months.
• Suggestions included large shade cloths, umbrellas, additional trees, and planter boxes to provide coverage.
• Some respondents noted the importance of shelter from both sun and rain.

2. Seating and comfort

• Requests were made for more seating options and flexible arrangements.
• Some respondents suggested that the current tables and chairs could be more comfortable or level.
• Additional feedback included the use of softer ground surfaces, such as faux grass, to enhance comfort.

3. Aesthetics and design

• Some respondents felt the space could be enhanced visually.
• Suggestions included additional greenery, improved landscaping, and decorative elements.
• Feedback indicated that some temporary features, such as orange barricades, could be replaced with more integrated design solutions.

4. Functionality and usability

• Respondents noted that the space was more frequently used during events than at other times.
• Suggestions included clearer branding and promotion to encourage broader community use.
• There was interest in extending the trial period or integrating the space into a long-term plan.

5. Noise and atmosphere

• Feedback varied on noise levels, with some respondents highlighting concerns about volume, while others supported more music and performances.
• Suggestions included background music, live music events, and community arts programs to enhance the atmosphere.

6. Traffic and accessibility

• Opinions on the street closure were mixed, with some respondents appreciating reduced traffic, while others raised concerns about accessibility and parking.
• Suggestions included improved planning for pedestrian and vehicle flow to balance accessibility needs.

7. Long-term use of the space

• Some respondents were interested in making the pop-up a permanent feature with enhancements.
• Others suggested alternative uses for the space once the temporary installation concludes.

8. Community involvement and consultation

• Some feedback reflected a desire for broader consultation with local residents and businesses.
• Suggestions included reviewing the method of gathering community input to ensure diverse participation.

9. Cleanliness and waste management

• Some respondents suggested additional waste bins, including recycling options.
• Feedback included observations on the general upkeep of the space, such as landscaping maintenance.

10. Events and activation

• There was strong interest in a diverse range of events, including food trucks, community art, and cultural activities.
• Some respondents suggested a dedicated performance space or small stage to support ongoing activation.

Conclusion

The community feedback highlights key considerations for improving the space, including shade, seating, aesthetics, accessibility, and long-term planning. These insights will inform future decisions to enhance usability and engagement.

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback. Your valuable insights will play a key role in shaping future projects, both in the Spotswood area and across Hobsons Bay.