City of Melbourne releases final Greenline plan for Yarra River’s north bank

A final plan for the city-shaping Greenline project has been released, but one key proposal for the Yarra won’t fly.

Greenline is a $300m project. Picture: City of Melbourne

A public pool on the Yarra River will not be part of the City of Melbourne’s $300m Greenline trail project on the north bank.

The council has rejected a proposal by the Yarra Pools consortium for a series of pools, wetlands and recreation spots around Enterprize Park.

The final Greenline implementation plan said that while the pool idea had merit, financial issues and limited public space at the site meant it wasn’t feasible.

A disappointed Yarra Pools president Felicity Watson said the group would refocus its campaign for a “swimmable Yarra” in the inner city, such as looking at alternative sites like Victoria Harbour in Docklands.

Under the Greenline plan to be considered by councillors on Tuesday, landscape and art installations are envisaged for Enterprize Park, while adjacent land would be turned into a Customs Square and integrated with the Immigration Museum/Old Customs building on Flinders Street.

The council will also look at the long-term removal of the William Street “S Bend” which links CBD traffic to Queensbridge Street.

However, total funding for the ambitious 4km trail linking Birrarung Marr and Bolte Bridge is yet to be secured, with the council seeking $200m from state and federal governments.

A render of Flinders Walk under the Greenline plan. Picture: City of Melbourne

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said her signature project would become a key tourist drawcard delivering huge economic benefits for the city.

“Greenline will create one of the largest networks of green spaces in Melbourne, creating a six metre wide promenade – roughly the width of two traffic lanes,” she said.

“Imagine walking along the north bank of the Yarra from the MCG to Docklands as the sun sets. You meander along pedestrian boardwalks and over bridges, explore in new parks, and celebrate our Aboriginal heritage and culture.”

Under the plan, cyclists will be allowed on Greenline provided they ride slowly.

But those travelling faster will be directed to protected lanes on Flinders Street or the alternative Southbank commuter cycle route.

Banana Alley would be transformed under the project. Picture: City of Melbourne

Having consulted with Indigenous groups, the council will consider renaming Greenline with an Aboriginal word.

And Greenline’s uses and programs will need to “appeal to locals and visitors of all cultures, backgrounds, ages, genders, sexualities, beliefs and abilities”.

Ms Capp said Greenline was forecast to deliver more than $1b in economic activity and create up to 1000 jobs over the project’s life.

A consultation process involved about 400 people giving feedback online, as well as workshops with stakeholders including land owners, traders and business groups.

Originally published as City of Melbourne releases final Greenline plan for Yarra River’s north bank