FAQs

When and where will this happen? 

The trial program will run for one week at Lucerne Street next to Mentone Grammar. This will be around the School Crossing, between the Gate 6 Carpark and the Primary School entrance at Gate 11. It will take place between Sunday 11 October and Sunday 18 October 2026.  

Is this program permanent? 

This is a pilot program running for one week. Its success and feedback from the community will help determine the potential for extending or repeating it. 

How long will the trial be in operation each day? 

This trial will be operational 24 hours per day during the week-long trial period.  

Why does this trial period include the weekend? 

This Open Street Trial is aimed to comprehensively measure traffic flows and movements. This includes on weekends as there are events that occur that would be impacted by these changes at Mentone Grammar.  

How will this affect my routine during drop-off and pick-up times? 

Open Streets will temporarily restrict through traffic on Lucerne Street. However, Lucerne Street will remain open for drop-off and pick-ups, as well as local traffic. 

Families who drive to school will still be able to use Lucerne Street and the Gate 6 Carpark as usual, however, will need to turn around at the temporary road closure. Vehicle access to the Gate 6 Carpark will be restricted to traffic only coming from Como Parade West. 

Will I be able to turn around on Lucerne Street? 

All vehicles will be able to turn around on Lucerne Street. Larger vehicles may have to perform a three-point turn. There will be a dedicated space at the edge of the road closure to perform this manoeuvre.

How will parking be impacted? 

There will be a small reallocation of parking spaces to support vehicles turning around the closure. This is expected to have a limited impact on parking availability on Lucerne Street during peak school pick up and drop off times. 

Do existing parking restrictions still apply? 

Existing parking restrictions on Lucerne Street will still apply and be enforceable during this trial period. 

How will this impact school staff and operations? 

Mentone Grammar is supportive of the initiative. The program will not impact school operations, and staff will be able to adjust their routines, where needed, to align with the program's goals of creating a safer, more connected community. 

How will this impact traffic in the surrounding area? 

Traffic management plans are in place to ensure smooth traffic flow in surrounding areas. The program is designed to ease congestion near school gates by encouraging active travel. Council and the school are also encouraging families to walk or ride where possible. Temporary changes to traffic patterns will be managed to minimise disruptions. 

How will Council monitor traffic conditions? 

Council will measure traffic at various locations the week before and of the trial to measure any impacts on traffic on these streets. Traffic counters will not be placed on Warrigal Road given it is an arterial road that is outside the control of Council.  

Will this impact the bus routes near the school? 

No public bus routes will be impacted by these changes. Council and Mentone Grammar have worked closely with relevant bus companies to manage any slight alterations, and this has been planned well before the Open Streets program. 

What benefits does the program bring to families and the community? 

Traffic congestion around schools during drop-off and pick-up times creates safety risks, poor air quality, and stressful environments for children, families, and residents.  

This can discourage and limit our children's opportunities to enjoy being active, social, and more connected to our community.   

Open Streets creates a safe and welcoming space around the school gates for children, families and residents of the local street. It encourages families to walk or ride to school and enjoy being active and healthy in a safer, less traffic-congested environment. 

Why should we support Open Streets? 

Open Streets creates a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable space for children and families and local residents. It encourages active travel, well-being and builds stronger community connections. 

Can emergency vehicles access the area? 

Emergency vehicles will have access to Lucerne Street if needed. Emergency services will be notified of this closure prior to the trial period.  

How will safety be maintained? 

Trained traffic marshals and clear signage will manage traffic and ensure the area is safe for everyone. 

Why do you have to close the road? 

Traffic congestion around schools during drop-off and pick-up times creates safety risks, poor air quality, and stressful environments for children, families, and residents.  

This can discourage and limit our children's opportunities to enjoy being active and social and more connected to our community.  

Streets are public places and are for everyone. People love walking and bike riding but don't always have options to do so. This temporary closure is an opportunity for children and families to get around safely, stay healthy and enjoy our neighbourhood.