Push for beach to revitalise Docklands

AN urban beach with volleyball courts and playgrounds has been suggested to revitalise Docklands in a report on the much-maligned precinct. Tell us what you think

A major report has suggested a beach can revitalise Docklands.

AN urban beach with volleyball courts and maritime-themed playgrounds has been suggested to revitalise Docklands in a major report on the much-maligned precinct.

Kept under wraps for years, the state-commissioned study by Danish urban consultants criticised the area for producing wind tunnels and lacking people-friendly facilities.

Gehl Architects said Harbour Esplanade near ­Etihad Stadium posed an opportunity for introducing recreational and water-related activities.

“Activities provided by the waterfront should supplement the city centre so that the waterfront becomes a valuable extension of the city,” said the 2010 report.

HAVE YOUR SAY: WHAT SHOULD BE DONE TO IMPROVE DOCKLANDS? ADD YOUR SUGGESTIONS BELOW

Options included an urban beach with huts, active piers, steps down to the water and public dock access. The consultants said the waterfront could also host activities such as paddle boat and kayak rentals, maritime-themed playgrounds, a kids’ sailing school, diving points and beach volleyball courts.

Redevelopment of Harbour Esplanade has been promised for years, but a final master plan is yet to be released.

Last December, Planning Minister Matthew Guy and Lord Mayor Robert Doyle announced $16 million works to demolish rotting wharves under a 10-year plan to rejuvenate the waterfront.

A temporary glass house, cafe and “edible” garden hosting neighbourhood events are expected to open within weeks.

Simon Wilson, general manager precincts for urban renewal authority Places Victoria, said the organisation would soon be seeking the public’s ideas on Harbour ­Esplanade.

“In the future, it might include elements that reflect the area’s maritime history such as reinstated heritage sheds, and it might have public squares for temporary or permanent events and attractions,” he said.

The Gehl report recommended CBD-style laneways, better pedestrian access and smaller scale developments to counter wind tunnel effects.

Mr Wilson said that many of the challenges identified in the 2010 report had been or were being addressed, including road and public transport upgrades, and big investment in parks, community gardens and sports courts.

“This evolution will continue over the next couple of years, with $63 million being invested in a new civic precinct in Victoria Harbour, which includes a new library and community centre, and a family services and boating hub.”

A further $18 million will go to the first stage of Western Park, which includes a football oval and playground.

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