Urban arbours transform Melbourne's tram stops
A visionary streetscape initiative is redefining public transport environments in Melbourne, fusing green infrastructure with the long-term performance benefits of stainless steel. Six new 'Urban Arbours' have been installed across central tram stops in a pilot project set to deliver cooler, cleaner, and greener city spaces.
Delivered through collaboration and stainless steel expertise
ASSDA Member Bespoke Wire and Rope was engaged by Plant Based Building Solutions (PBBS) to assist with the design, engineering, management, and installation of the Urban Arbour structures. The concept, developed by PBBS and backed by the Department of Transport and Planning (Victoria) under the City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest Fund, is part of a broader initiative to increase canopy cover and combat urban heat.
Designed in consultation with Yarra Trams, the City of Melbourne and the Department of Transport, the Urban Arbours are visually aligned with existing tram shelters, but mark a significant step forward in terms of material performance. Yarra Trams’ prior experience with structural failures due to corrosion on powder-coated aluminium shelters highlighted the need for a more durable solution – making stainless steel the clear choice.
ASSDA literature was instrumental in demonstrating the long-term value of stainless steel to key stakeholders. Its corrosion resistance, durability in outdoor and plant-laden environments, and minimal maintenance requirements were decisive factors in its adoption.
Sustainability and strength from the ground up
The Urban Arbours are engineered to accommodate live greenery, withstand 
environmental loading from wind, earthquakes, and pedestrian impact, and support modular expansion. Their unique design also optimises installation logistics – from transport dimensions to crane operations under live tram wires – while meeting stringent regulatory and accessibility requirements.
To help bring the design to life, ASSDA Member SP McLean Engineering was engaged by Bespoke Wire and Rope for the structural fabrication. The frames were manufactured using grade 316 stainless steel Circular Hollow Sections (CHS), including 55 lineal metres of 33.4x3.38 CHS and 85 lineal metres of 141.3x6.55 CHS. All welds were conducted by qualified personnel following documented procedures and tested for quality assurance. A 3-coat Dulux wet spray system was applied by an Accredited Dulux Painter to blend aesthetically with the surrounding infrastructure.
Installation methodologies were carefully planned with ground-penetrating radar scans, dustless drilling, and chemical anchoring ensuring precise, non-invasive placement of footings and bolts. Each cable and mesh panel was prefabricated off-site by Bespoke Wire and Rope for efficient and accurate installation. Over 120 M12 and M16 anchor and bolt assemblies were used to erect and fasten the structure.
Elevating green infrastructure with stainless steel
ASSDA Member and Accredited Fabricator Arcus Wire Group supplied the vertical trellis cables, Flexi-Mesh canopy and triangular infills. Grade 316 stainless steel used throughout project including:
- ~98 lineal metres of 8mm 1x19 wire rope
- ~240 lineal metres of 4mm 7x7 wire
- ~270 roll swage wire terminations
These components not only enable plant growth but also eliminate the need for excess structural steel, reducing material usage, cost, and on-site fabrication. The lightweight cable system simplifies logistics and contributes to the arbour’s sleek and modern profile.
Nature meets urban mobility
Designed as living, breathing structures, the Urban Arbours offer more than just shade. They support native plants that absorb CO2, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, contributing to improved air quality. The foliage also encourages biodiversity and assists in developing pollinator pathways through the use of native and flowering plant palettes.
The structures are low maintenance, requiring only periodic inspections and plant care during dry periods. Their modular design means multiple units can be joined to increase shade coverage, supporting the scalability of the project across the network.
As a showcase of sustainable urban infrastructure, this pilot project embodies the strength, longevity, and aesthetic versatility of stainless steel – setting a precedent for future city design that harmonises with nature. With early success and strong stakeholder support, the Urban Arbours are becoming a recognisable feature of Melbourne’s public transport landscape, with more installations underway across the tram network that will continue to deliver, cooler, greener, and more liveable urban spaces.
Photo credit: Bespoke Wire & Rope and Brook James Photographer.
This article was featured in Australian Stainless Magazine 82.