Boardwalk, gardens to transform Birrarung Marr as first Greenline plans unveiled

Plans for the first stage of Melbourne Council’s Greenline project have been unveiled and riverside precinct Birrarung Marr is set for a big makeover.

More than 450m of boardwalk and paths through gardens at Birrarung Marr will herald the first stage of the council’s Greenline project.

Town Hall has unveiled images of plans for the new riverside walkway on the north bank of the Yarra.

The Birrarung Marr section is the first stage of the $300m project that will eventually continue 4km uninterrupted down to the Bolte Bridge. Work is expected to start in the middle of next year.

The Yarra River’s edge at night – part of the proposed first stage of Greenline project at Birrarung Marr. Picture: City of Melbourne

It’s the first of five precincts with The Falls, River Park, Maritime and Salt Water Wharf Precincts to follow.

The Greenline idea, based on New York’s High Line elevated park, was an election promise by Lord Mayor Sally Capp in 2018.

“The Greenline Project will transform, revitalise and reimagine the north bank of the Yarra River – with a new boardwalk, paths and lush greenery along Birrarung Marr,’’ Cr Capp said.

The event space at Birrarung Marr will remain for the Greenline project. Picture: City of Melbourne.

“Our plans are bold and will create new opportunities for everyone to engage with the river.’’

The concept plans also feature a small billabong near the 6m-wide promenade and also include the retention of open space for events such as Night Noodle Markets, Moomba and activations for the Australian Open.

The plans will be open for public comment during the six-week community consultation process, starting from Tuesday, August 2.