Yarra's Edge residents fear impact of planned bridge linking Collins St, Fishermans Bend redevelopment

APARTMENT dwellers and luxury boat owners at Docklands are worried about the impact of a proposed bridge across the Yarra River.

APARTMENT dwellers and luxury boat owners at Docklands are worried about the impact of a proposed bridge across the Yarra River.

Yarra's Edge residents and marina users say the planned tram bridge linking the Collins St extension with the Fishermans Bend redevelopment will destroy parkland and restrict access to boats.

The bridge is part of the State Government's draft master plan for the redevelopment, providing an important public transport connection with Docklands and the CBD.

It is proposed it be built from Collins Landing in Victoria Harbour to Point Park on Lorimer St, Port Melbourne.

But Yarra's Edge marina manager Allan Cayzer said consequences would be dire.

"The format shown in that draft will literally wipe out the marina. It will run through the only bit of green space that we have at Yarra's Edge," he said.

Mr Cayzer said the bridge would block most yachts and power boats in the marina heading west towards the bay.

"We've got some very big boats and a number of yachts that have an air draught of 21m, including one who just gets under the Bolte Bridge," Mr Cayzer said. "You can imagine what a tram bridge across the Yarra will be like."

Residents of the Yarra's Edge towers are also concerned about their views and amenity being compromised.

A Melbourne City Council submission on the redevelopment noted the concerns, but said the planned tram bridge was critical.

"Early instalment … will ensure the growth of jobs and businesses that will only be attracted … if good access to existing businesses and services in the (CBD) and Docklands is available," it said.

It called for the design and location to be carefully considered, including the option of a bascule bridge to allow boats access.

Extra open space could be provided to compensate for losses at Point Park.