The City of Melbourne has released its plans for a four-kilometre promenade along the north bank of Birrarung (Yarra River).
Dubbed the Greenline, the six-metre-wide promenade will run uninterrupted from Birrarung Marr to the Bolte Bridge, an area where walking and cycling is currently limited by narrow and poorly connected paths, steep slopes and uneven pavements.
Going before the Future Melbourne Committee on 7 December, the Final Greenline Implementation Plan outlines how the project will establish the riverbank as an ecological corridor, while also engaging with its history as Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country and as a maritime port.
Greenline project concept image, City of Melbourne.
Image: City of Melbourne
“Imagine walking along the north bank of the Yarra from the MCG to Docklands as the sun sets. You meander along pedestrian boardwalks and over bridges, explore in new parks, and celebrate our Aboriginal heritage and culture,” said lord mayor Sally Capp.
“Just as Southbank and Federation Square energized Melbourne at the turn of the century, Greenline will usher in a new era for our city at a time we need it most.”
Along with improving public amenity, the project will focus on improving river health, increasing tree canopy and reintroducing riparian vegetation to support biodiversity. The edge of the river will be reconstructed and softened, allowing for natural processes to shape the river
Some of the initiatives proposed as part of the project include expanding the promenade in the existing Birrarung Marr precinct; creating better connections between the river, Swanston Street and Flinders Street Station; upgrades to Banana Alley vaults and the lower promenade in the Yarro Yarro precinct; and creating a new park at the end of the Salt Water Wharf precinct.
The council will also work with the Yarra Pools community association to formally assess the merits of its proposed swimmable river project. Already underway is an upgrade to Enterprize Park, which will be completed soon.
Yarra Pool concept design by Wowowa.
Image: Wowowa
“Locals and visitors will soon enjoy an extra 1,000 square meters of green lawn – almost the size of one Olympic swimming pool – with better views and access along the river,” said Capp.
The final plan comes after a period of community consultation, in which around 400 people providing their feedback online.
“Feedback was overwhelmingly positive and found more than half of those surveyed wanted the space to be used for exercise and recreation, as well as opportunities to enhance greening and improve the environmental health of both the riverbank and the river itself,” said councillor Olivia Ball.
The City of Melbourne is advocating for a tri-government funding partnership, and is asking for $100 million each from the federal and state governments.
