Victoria Minister for Planning Matthew Guy

Crowne Plaza Promenade In Step With Vision For Northbank

Victor P Taffa

Planning Minister Matthew Guy and Lord Mayor Robert Doyle today announced the start of the Crowne Plaza Promenade redevelopment works, paving the way for a more vibrant Northbank waterfront.

Mr. Guy said Northbank was recognised as a hub for business, commercial and community activities and these works were part of the $18 Million commitment from the Victorian Government and City of Melbourne to continue the redevelopment of this part of Melbourne.

The Crowne Plaza Promenade will further enhance the amenity and accessibility of the area, providing a link from Docklands to the city centre, and then to Birrarung Marr along the Yarra River.

“This section of the redevelopment will improve the Northbank Promenade by providing better access for pedestrians and cyclists from Spencer Street and widening the existing walkway around the Crowne Plaza.” Mr. Guy said

“The Victorian Government and City of Melbourne acknowledge the significance of the riverfront to the city and the Northbank Promenade project builds on this unique asset.”

The Crowne Plaza Promenade will connect to the World Trade Centre Promenade, which includes floating pontoons and berthing facilities.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the City of Melbourne was delighted to be in partnership with the Planning Minister to improve one of the neglected jewels of Melbourne, Northbank.

“We understand the success of Southbank, Docklands is progressing extremely well and now it’s time to turn our attention to Northbank.” Cr Doyle said.

“There is great potential in Northbank: the Banana Alley Vaults, bicycle tracks, even using space under the Charles Grimes Bridge.”

Mr. Guy said the next section of the promenade earmarked for development was the Charles Grimes Bridge underpass in 2012, followed by work on the north wharf promenade in coming years.

The $2.8 Million Crowne Plaza Promenade project, which received $1.3 Million from the Victorian Government, is expected to be completed in March 2012. The City of Melbourne will be appointed as Committee of Management over the promenade.