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YRBA

YRBA

The north bank of the Lower Yarra has been the orphan of the precinct for many years, but various new developments and proposals should make it every bit as attractive and exciting as Southbank by 2020.

Melburnians got an inkling of what the north bank could be when the aquarium opened in 2001, followed by Federation Square in 2002, with Birrarung Marr opening soon after.

When the Commonwealth Games people moved out of the old World Trade Centre in 2006 the transformation began of what had been known as Melbourne’s “white elephant” into what is now the vibrancy of WTC North Wharf, which opened its doors in 2011. There’s still plenty to come at WTC, with a new addition soon to come to its waterfront dining and the redevelopment of the old convention centre site that sits behind Crowne Plaza.

Inside the complex, you’ll find an array of artworks, including a few of the former river fish sculptures from 2006, some good quality budget dining places, and the fascinating Police Museum. The museum has free entry and its permanent and temporary displays are always very professionally presented.

WTC Water Taxi operates from WTC Wharf on a seasonal basis. This time of the year it runs a “float to the footy” service but, come November, it will resume its Yarra loop service until autumn 2014. It’s a great way to get around, to get a new perspective on Melbourne, and all for just a few dollars.

The magic that has transformed WTC is shortly to be applied to the North Wharf area, located between Flinders Wharf apartments and the Grimes Bridge. Asset 1, the developer of WTC, has won the State Government rights to restore and enhance the historic wharf sheds and crane.

What you will see emerging will retain the integrity of the heritage buildings, but will overlay it with modern, commercial facilities, as well as a new park, Seafarers Rest.  The new development will also further highlight the beautiful 1917 Mission to Seafarers building in Flinders St.

The people at the Mission have worked hard in recent years to make the building more publicly accessible, including concerts, art exhibitions, dining events, weddings or just providing a drink to passers-by from its lovely old bar. Drop-in next time you’re in that vicinity because it’s one of the most amazing buildings in Melbourne.

By the middle of next year we will be able to enjoy the new Jim Stynes Bridge on Northbank, which will not only be a stunning architectural addition, but will make cycling and walking Northbank so much easier.

Slowly the north bank is re-developing, but there is still a lot requiring attention. Enterprize Park under the railway viaduct is still a dark, confronting place for many people, especially at night.  

Banana Alley Vaults is a historic waterfront gem crying out for a sympathetic redevelopment, including better integration with the river itself.

The Elizabeth St pedestrian underpass to Southbank, under the station, remains a major embarrassment to business and the tourism community and, of course, the potential for the redevelopment of the station itself, to emphasise its 1880s architecture and to create a seamless interface with the river, is perhaps Melbourne’s biggest opportunity.

 

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