08 Aug 2017 Construction Underway On Public Park In Fishermans Bend
Construction is underway at an 8000 sq m public park in Australia’s largest urban renewal project, “Fishermans Bend”.
Covering approximately 485 hectares in inner Melbourne, the urban renewal project will consist of five precincts across two municipalities – the City of Melbourne and the City of Port Phillip – and connect Melbourne’s CBD to the bay.
It is expected that by 2050, Fishermans Bend will be home to approximately 80,000 residents and provide employment for up to 60,000 people.
Located in the heart of Fishermans Bend’s Montague Precinct on Buckhurst Street, the park is just a short stroll from the South Melbourne Ferrars Street Primary School, also under construction.
“We are excited that the demolition works underway are paving the way for the first new park for Fishermans Bend,” Port Phillip Mayor Bernadene Voss said.
“This is great news for community members of all ages who will be able to come here to relax under a tree, kick a ball or meet friends for a chat.”
Hayball is the project’s principle consultant, with landscape architecture by Tract Consultants according to ArchitectureAU.
Fishermans Bend will create a new, vibrant community containing a genuine mix of residential, commercial, retail entertainment, industry, transport and community facilities.
The Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area is made-up of four precincts: Lorimer precinct located in the City of Melbourne on the eastern side of the Bolte Bridge and Montague, Sandridge and Wirraway precincts located in the City of Port Phillip.
The park will measure 8,000 square metres; two and half times the size of Melbourne’s City Square.
Development of the park will be staged, with grass, seating, lighting, trees, footpaths and basic amenities upon opening in mid-2018, followed by consultation with the local community to determine what other elements are needed to support a wide range of recreational activities and uses.
Cr Voss said the investment reflects the importance Council places on building healthy and connected communities.
Port Phillip Council is partnering with the Victorian Government to provide the park as a crucial open space for “Australia’s biggest urban renewal project”.
Council reportedly contributed $6.3 million towards the purchase price for the land.
“Open space is vital for Fishermans Bend as access to nature promotes health and well-being, particularly for apartment dwellers who don’t have backyards,” Cr Voss said.
Council’s concept design for the park includes a paved entrance area, featuring landscaping and artwork. Terraced areas will provide spaces for people to relax under shady trees or run around.
Under the staged development, the park is also set to include further facilities in the future, including a playground and outdoor fitness equipment.
The park is part of a Council’s integrated approach to the Ferrars Street and Community Precinct.
“The progressing park is just the start of the good news we are looking forward to for Fishermans Bend. We are keen to build on this successful partnership and deliver more places and spaces for the Fishermans Bend community with the Victorian Government,” Cr Voss said.