Stage three of Southbank Boulevard upgrade begins

Work has started on the new civic space outside the ABC, as part of the Southbank Boulevard upgrade project.

With earth works starting in late July, Lord Mayor Sally Capp said 2200 square metres of additional open space would now be created between Sturt and Moore streets.

“This is the third stage in the Southbank Boulevard upgrade and this part of the project will transform an area the equivalent of almost two Olympic-sized swimming pools,” the Lord Mayor said.

“We have always valued parks and green space, but COVID-19 restrictions have shown just how vital open space is for people to get fresh air while maintaining physical distance.”

“Investing in new parks and public open spaces is a top priority for the City of Melbourne and this project will deliver Southbank residents, workers and visitors with new gardens, seating, lawns and a large area for events.”

“The central stone terrace will be equipped with data and electrical points for outside broadcasts and community event holders can access power.”

“The extensive gardens will feature 50 new trees from a variety of species with an iconic River Red Gum as the focal point.”

The Lord Mayor said upgraded public lighting would ensure the space was welcoming at all times of the day and would provide a sense of security during the evening.

“We want to make this area attractive and welcoming during the day or night so locals, workers and visitors feel safe to enjoy these new gardens, seating areas and lawns,” the Lord Mayor said.

The Lord Mayor said there would be some noise and disruption in the first few months of demolition, and some pedestrian detours during construction.

“Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge that this project has already had a number of delays. I’ve made it very clear to our team that continued delays are unacceptable to our local community,” the Lord Mayor said.

“For the remainder of this project, our team is committed to reducing disruption to residents, workers and businesses wherever possible. We are particularly mindful that many people are working from home.”

“We will schedule works to reduce disruption as much as possible and will notify residents and business well in advance.”

Roadway, tramline and lighting works between St Kilda Rd and City Rd are now complete. Separated bike lanes have opened along Linlithgow Avenue and Southbank Boulevard, and the remaining bike lanes are expected to open by late 2020.

In other capital works news in Southbank, community consultation is still open on the council’s forthcoming upgrade of the 300-metre stretch of Southbank Promenade between Princes Bridge and Evan Walker Bridge.

In March the council announced that it was putting the project on hold until 2021 to minimise disruption in the area, providing an extended window for locals to have their say on the landscape design until August 21 •

For more information: Participate Melbourne