We can take some heart

 

Greetings everybody

Whilst there is still no decision from Minister Guy regarding the MAB plan for the redevelopment of Waterfront City and the piazza, the DCA has received a response from Premier Baillieu to our representations saying that, whilst he couldn’t make specific comment on the plan while it is still under review, he said: “ I would like to commend the commitment of time and resources that the members of the Docklands Community Association have dedicated to raising their concerns about the proposal with the Minister for Planning.”

“The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to improving community assets in the Docklands precinct … As part of the 2011-12 State Budget, our Government provided $9.7 million over four years to develop a new planning strategy for Melbourne, of which Docklands is a vital component.”

I think we can take some heart from that and also from the protracted delay in a decision on the WFC plans, which may indicate some modifications are under consideration.

The City of Melbourne has released what it calls Public Realm Plans for Docklands. It can be commented on online or at public forums being held at the Hub on Wednesday, June 13, 5.30 - 6.30pm or Saturday, June 16, 11am to 12 noon.

The plan is a lengthy document covering roads, streets, buildings and open space on land. Interestingly, it does not address water-use development. The impression is that they want to broaden the focus away from parks open space, which of course is lacking.

Whilst streets can be used for walking and there are bike tracks, it acknowledges the need for land-based recreation and more parks and trees. Of course the “No man’s land” Esplanade is open space and its redevelopment will add significantly to the Docklands’ image and use.

Interestingly, it says the Waterfront City Piazza is earmarked as a civic space providing a green space for locals as well as for events attracting up to 5000 people.

The development of the waterways usage is an integral part of the public realm development and perhaps is being made a separate study. Ferries are seen as crucial in bringing visitors to and from NewQuay.  In relation to the recent airing of the idea of commuter ferries between the lower western suburbs and the city it raises the question of would they also service NewQuay.

Council is running a survey on what people think of the public events held in the city. The notice has been sent out to members. It can be accessed online. It has been pointed out to council that they have failed to include reference to events held in Docklands.

Lists of Docklands events and activities from the Hub, council and Etihad Stadium are being emailed to members as they come to hand.

Following the forum in March hosted by Places Victoria and council informing us of improved governance and consultation, we have heard nothing further or have not received any response to our suggestion that the DCA and the Chamber of Commerce should be represented on their strategic planning committee. We will follow up.

If any reader would like to become a member of the DCA or has any suggestions they wish to put forward regarding activities or issues, they are welcome to contact us on [email protected]  If you would like to talk to me about any aspect you are welcome to call me on 0412 097 706.  You can also keep up with things on our website http://www.docklandscommunityassociation.com

Great to be in touch again.

Sincerely
Roger Gardner
President DCA

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