Nylex clock at heart of proposed Melbourne mini suburb, Malt District

A $1 BILLION redevelopment of the Nylex clock site on the Yarra would see it transformed into a mini suburb with its own brewery and arts and leisure precinct.

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A $1 BILLION redevelopment of the Nylex clock site on the Yarra would see it transformed into a mini suburb with its own brewery and arts and leisure precinct.

More than 500 jobs will be created during construction of the newly named Malt District at Cremorne, including 1000 apartments, bars, restaurants, cafes and commercial offices.

Developer Caydon is also working with Parks Victoria for a ferry stop at the waterfront development, while ­access for pedestrians and ­cyclists will be a high priority.

The landmark Nylex clock will be restored and repositioned at the same orientation on a new building.

Caydon principal Joe Russo said the vision was to use a mix of new and heritage buildings and turn the 1.4ha area into a local version of New York’s trendy Meatpacking District.

“It’s about creating a ­vibrant destination where small businesses can start, ­art­isans can display their craft, and where local and international tourists can visit for a drink or a meal,” he said.

An image of the proposed Malt District, with the Nylex clock in the background.

Richmond's iconic Nylex clock. Picture: Steve Tanner

An artist’s impression of how the Malt District would look.

“The opportunity to ­create a residential, commercial and tourism hub in an area that has such a fantastic historical pedigree is rare for any developer, and our plans will establish a new precinct where people will be excited and proud to live, work and visit.”

Architects Fender Katsalidis, who designed the Eureka Tower, are working with landscape designer Oculus to incorporate the site’s historic link with brewing and malt storage in the design.

Some of the concrete silos and other old buildings will be retained and a microbrewery will open, with plans to launch an international beer competition to give the precinct extra allure.

Mr Russo said it was vital for the Malt District to have good links to the Yarra River and local bike and walking paths.

“Melburnians are embracing the Yarra frontage as a place to socialise, exercise and even commute, as people shun cars to get in and out of the city,” he said.

“There is also the potential for ferry services in and out of the city, and the site’s proximity to the Yarra makes this a viable possibility.”

Planning documents have been lodged with Yarra Council and, pending approval, construction work on the ambitious project could start late next year.

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@JMasanauskas