MELBOURNE: 80,000 to live at Fishermans Bend
The State Government’s Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct is a step closer to becoming reality – with construction starting on the precinct which will be home to approximately 80,000 residents and up to 80,000 workers by 2050.
Winslow Infrastructure Pty Ltd has been appointed to complete main works for Stage 1 of the Precinct at the former General Motors Holden site.
This will help to establish an east-west connection across Fishermans Bend by linking Salmon St and Todd Rd – unlocking development-ready lots for industry investment.
Stage 1 of the project will deliver new roads, a public park and the necessary infrastructure to accommodate for a world- class advanced manufacturing, engineering and design precinct.
These works will also intergrate with the University of Melbourne’s new School of Engineering and Design campus opens next year, which will better connect students with researchers and industry partners.
In addition to the main works, OneWifi has been appointed to roll out smart poles within the precinct which are capable of boosing 5G, local wifi networks and deliver EV charging.
The Precinct is part of the broader Fishermans Bend urban renewal project which is set to become a key hub for thousands of residents, workers and students right on the doorstep of Melbourne’s CBD.
Fishermans Bend covers approximately 480 hectares across the City of Melbourne and the City of Port Phillip – and connects Melbourne’s CBD to Port Phillip Bay.
The State Government is investing almost $180 million to kickstart development of precinct which will be come a centre of innovation in advanced manufacturing, engineering and design.
Last year, the Government also endorsed a preferred route for a possible future rail tunnel through Fishermans Bend and Docklands – providing certainty to landowners that a new transport connection will be developed in the future.
Planning work has also started for a future tram connection and almost 1,500 additional bus services per week have been added to the Fishermans Bend public transport network since 2022 – increasing the frequency, reliability and coverage of service to the area.
Harriet Shing, Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts (p[ictured), said: “We’re delivering a well-connected and carefully planned precinct at Fishermans Bend, with connections to roads and new public spaces that will be incredibly important as development continues.”
Nina Taylor, Albert Park MLA, said: “The Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct will attract the world’s brightest minds in advanced manufacturing and engineering, and is part of the broader project which will deliver a vibrant and welcoming community for residents.”
University of Melbourne Chief Operating Officer Katerina Kapobassis said: “The University of Melbourne is excited about the potential opportunities Fishermans Bend will bring to connect students and researchers with industry partners.”