North Wharf building revealed

Asset1 WTC has revealed its intentions for a 14-storey commercial building between Flinders St and Shed 5 at North Wharf.

The developer believes the proposal is sympathetic with the adjacent heritage-listed Mission to Seafarers building and Shed 5.

Asset 1 WTC chief operating officer Gavin Boyd said the development included restoration of Shed 5 and would soon be revealed and submitted to the State Government for town planning input
and approval.

Mr Boyd said the proposal had been carefully designed to reflect the heritage significance of the former Australian Wharf building and historic crane, and rejuvenate the Seafarers Park and wharf frontages to create “a harmonious amenity” for the precinct.

“For many years the existing building has been derelict so, as part of our planning, we aim to restore the building to its original heritage and integrate the site to create a very high quality corporate environment and one which is inviting to the community,” Mr Boyd said.

Mission to Seafarers CEO Andrea Fleming said: “The Mission to Seafarers Victoria looks forward to neighbouring the new Shed 5 development and appreciates greatly WTC Asset 1’s support for the restoration also of the heritage-listed seafarers centre at 717 Flinders Street, Docklands.”

Asset1 WTC strategic director Philip Hill said the proposed development would enable water linkages to WTC to be activated.

The developer sees North Wharf as a cornerstone of the CBD grid, “alongside a sweeping bend in Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River, hugging the southern corner of Melbourne’s vibrant Docklands.”

“This unique corner of the city is one of the last precincts to be regenerated and presents a great opportunity to revive the city’s cornerstone.”

“The project provides an opportunity to become a visual icon for the western gateway to the city, a company-connected, destination-driven public place that fulfils Melbourne’s planning vision for the North Bank Precinct; a precinct that offers and provides an innovative mix of commercial and retail functions, public domain improvements for employees and visitors alike, convenient and equitable access, increased parkland connections, and a wider range of development uses within the city edge.”

“It is also perfectly situated next to the intersection of main roads, pedestrian and bicycle connections and major public transport routes.”