Ground-breaking Digital Harbour

Developer Poly Australia broke ground at its flagship development – and the first major tower in the Digital Harbour precinct – at 1000 La Trobe St on July 11.

It is the first commercial building to be built in the CBD or Docklands in 30 years without requiring pre-commitments for funding.

Digital Harbour director David Napier said the precinct was “delighted”.

“This 40,000 sqm commercial office will complete the La Trobe St frontage of the Digital Harbour precinct and bring with it recognition by Melbourne commercial office tenants that the north end of Docklands is now one of the last remaining city fringe offerings of large floor office space,” he said.

The development will consist of 23 levels reaching approximately 91 metres high. The design hosts the opportunity for vertical floor integrations, access to health and wellness facilities, and a 700-square-metre co-working centre.

“There is a need for new supply in the market and Poly Australia’s commitment to deliver and cater to the demand is a testament to its appetite to delivering outstanding projects with high performing results,” Colliers International office leasing national director Edward Knowles said.

It also includes a substantial ground-floor retail mix consisting of cafes, retail services and other amenities. Poly Australia awarded ProBuild the main works contract.

The development is expected to commence main construction later this year and remains on schedule to be completed by the end of 2021.

Digital Harbour is set to be one of the most connected destinations in the CBD and Docklands precincts, positioned directly next to Southern Cross Station, the free tram zone, Capital City Trail, major freeway arterials such as City Link and the upcoming West Gate Tunnel Project.

“Access from the north end of Docklands to the surrounding freeway system is only going to get better with the completion of the Westgate Tunnel project that will start and finish at the Digital Harbour access to Wurundjeri Way below Melbourne Water,” Mr Napier said.

“When coupled with the city’s free tram network that services both La Trobe St and Harbour Esplanade, Digital Harbour presents one of the best-connected locations in the Melbourne CBD.”