Greenline project will kick off with $140m for five wetlands and a new linear park
Beds of floating reeds and the transformation of a key riverside park will kickstart early works on the Yarra River’s Greenline project.
Victoria
Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Creating “floating wetlands” on the Yarra River and transforming a key riverside park will kick start early works for the City of Melbourne’s ambitious $300m Greenline project.
The council has set aside $140m for the linear park venture over the next year as part of a $110m commitment over four years under its latest budget.
But while Greenline will get a $20m funding boost if Labor wins the federal election, it falls well short of the $100m the council was seeking from federal authorities, as well as $100m from the state government to complete the 4km northbank promenade.
New renders released by the council show how so-called floating wetlands might look on the river in the CBD.
It’s proposed to create five wetlands between Princes Bridge and Yarra’s Edge in Docklands.
Another image shows an upgrade of the riverside path and riverbank at Birrarung Marr where Greenline will start.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the floating wetlands would help to protect river banks and support diverse flora and fauna on the water.
“It’s another way of drawing more people into the city to enjoy Melbourne’s most iconic waterway – the foundation around which the entire city was built,” she said.
“Greenline will change the landscape of our city forever, delivering more than $1bn in economic activity and transforming the north bank of the Yarra River from the MCG to Docklands”.
Under the city’s 2022-23 draft budget to be released on Tuesday, a record $254m will be spent on infrastructure, including $50m for the Queen Victoria Market renewal.
But residents and businesses, who enjoyed a rates freeze and discount in the past two years, can expect an increase this time as Town Hall deals with rising costs.
There is also speculation that a new waste charge may be introduced.
The market redevelopment, which has faced significant delays, will include the completion of heritage shed restoration over the year.
The food hall revamp is also due to be done, while construction will start on improving the Queen St streetscape, northern shed and trader shed.
Other major investments include $25m for the Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre redevelopment that will include a 25m pool, gym, and multipurpose courts.
About $8.2 million will complete the fit-out of the Munro library and community hub next to Queen Victoria Market, with the project due to be finished in 2023.
Council will also spend more than $13.7m to repair and maintain footpaths, roads and other infrastructure.
Ms Capp said the big infrastructure pipeline would help boost confidence and create up to 1000 jobs at a critical time for our city.
“We’re investing in our community facilities, and making important upgrades to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our city,” she said.
Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said that despite pandemic effects, Melbourne remained very attractive for developers.
“The city boasts a healthy pipeline of approved projects worth almost $1bn, stretching from the CBD and Southbank to Kensington, East Melbourne and Docklands,” he said.
Mr Reece said a new digital permits system would cut planning red tape.
‘Saying goodbye to our beautiful Troy’: Selwood’s funeral details
Former Brisbane Lions star and Geelong Grammar staff member Troy Selwood will be farewelled at the home of the Cats, GMHBA Stadium, on Valentine’s Day.
‘Massive win’ for TAFE teachers as pay hiked, conditions improved
Under a new agreement with the Allan government, the minimum salary of TAFE teachers will jump by 21 per cent over four years, including a 14 per cent rise in the first 14 months.