City of Yarra bans alcohol consumption on Carlton median strips

The City of Yarra has implemented a ban on alcohol consumption along the grassy median strips of Canning, Rathdowne, and Drummond streets in Carlton. This decision follows years of resident complaints regarding noise, rubbish, and unsafe behavior associated with patrons purchasing alcohol from local businesses, such as the Wine Corner Store and Bar, to consume in these public spaces.

Legal advice has clarified that these extra-wide median strips are to be treated as part of the road rather than as municipal reserves. Consequently, drinking in these areas is no longer permitted. A council spokesperson stated that the approach focuses on safety and amenity rather than penalizing responsible drinkers.