Verandah project delayed until 2010

By Alison Kinkade

Having missed its starting date, VicUrban says that the redevelopment of Harbour Esplanade will start in the first half of 2010.

The project was due to start this year but VicUrban says the change of ownership of Melbourne’s tram service is to blame for the delay.

The redevelopment, known as Melbourne’s Verandah, is designed to optimise the public space and transform the area into a key waterfront destination.

The project will provide a specific pedestrian pathway, a designated bicycle track, additional parkland and will realign the tram tracks to the centre of the road to create a more efficient service.

VicUrban’s General Manager for Project Planning and Innovation, David Young, says the project is not only about creating a major waterfront destination, but is also about providing parks and opens spaces to Docklands residents.

“The creation of a new heart comprising open and green spaces, is also expected to better connect the areas of Docklands, while enhancing Docklands’ integration with wider Melbourne,” Mr Young said.

The redevelopment will be rolled out in stages, with stage one expected to take up to a year to complete.

Stage one will involve the relocation and replacement of trees, the creation of two new platform tram stops north of Latrobe St and the construction of designated bicycle and pedestrian tracks.