New fireworks strategy

City of Melbourne is considering moving its New Year’s Eve fireworks display from the centre of Victoria Harbour to a number of Docklands rooftops.

Council’s fireworks consultants have been canvassing buildings across Docklands over the last month to assess their suitability as firing sites.

But it’s understood that many owners are ambivalent to the idea of fireworks being fired from their rooftops.

The move away from water-firing is due to the current construction works at the NewQuay Piazza, which has been used as the New Year’s Eve “live site” in Docklands.

“Due to capital works projects in the vicinity of Docklands Piazza, we are exploring other areas in Docklands, which can be used as a New Year’s Eve Live Site to accommodate large crowds and offer a great view of the midnight fireworks display,” a City of Melbourne spokesperson said.

“In line with this, we are also currently scoping potential new locations to use as launching sites for the fireworks to ensure crowds have the best possible view.”

It’s understood the council has already contacted Dock 5, The Quays and Harbour One about using their rooftops as firing sites and is also considering the Convesso and Concavo buildings.

According to the council spokesperson, negotiations are presently under way with a number of buildings.

“We have had very positive feedback from the majority of Docklands stakeholders who have been involved in the process of exploring new locations for a Live Site, and possible launching sites for fireworks.”

But Dock 5 building manager Bill Castles said many owners weren’t keen on the idea of the building’s rooftop being used as a firing site.

“The OC prefers the water display, particularly given this is meant to be a marine precinct and is marketed as such,” Mr Castles said.

According to Mr Castles, owners are also concerned about the potential “fall-out” from the fireworks onto the building and boats in the marina below the building.

It’s understood The Quays owners’ corporation will consider the proposal at its next committee meeting.

The City of Melbourne is expected to launch its New Year’s Eve program later in the year, including details of this year’s live sites.