City of Melbourne Council has announced it will spend a record $254 million on infrastructure to build better facilities, create jobs and supercharge the economy, as part of its draft Budget 2022–23.
Council is set to invest $140 million in the city’s Greenline project over the next four years; with $40 million earmarked for floating wetlands, the transformation of almost 600 metres of the river’s edge at Birrarung Marr and to continue early works along the north bank.
“Our super-charged infrastructure pipeline invests in Melbourne’s momentum – building confidence and creating up to 1,000 jobs at a critical time for our city,” said Lord Mayor, Sally Capp.
“We’re investing in our community facilities and making important upgrades to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our city.
“Greenline will change the landscape of our city forever, delivering more than $1 billion in economic activity and transforming the north bank of the Yarra River from the MCG to Docklands.”
The boost follows the recent unveiling of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline Implementation Plan, and completion of the first stage of the project with the opening of the new Enterprize Park.
In another significant milestone for the Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal, Council will spend $50 million on the planned next stage of the project.
It said works to restore the market’s heritage sheds will be completed within the year, along with the revamped Food Hall. Construction will begin on upgrades to the Queen Street streetscape, Northern Shed and Trader Shed, making it easier for traders to do business.
It’s envisaged the infrastructure pipeline will generate up to 1,000 jobs, providing a significant economic boost for businesses across the city.
Investment in major community infrastructure projects will include $25 million for the Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre redevelopment. With construction already underway, the new facility will boast a 25-metre pool, gymnasium, multi-purpose courts, community spaces, and accessible change-rooms.
“Despite two years of pandemic uncertainty, Melbourne remains an incredibly attractive drawcard for developers,” said Deputy Lord Mayor, Nicholas Reece.
“The city boasts a healthy pipeline of approved projects worth almost $1 billion, stretching from the CBD and Southbank to Kensington, East Melbourne and Docklands.”
More than $8.2 million will complete the fit-out of the Munro Library and Community Hub, with the project slated for completion in 2023.
Council will also invest more than $13.7 million to repair and maintain footpaths, roads and other infrastructure. This includes another footpath blitz, as well as new street furniture, wayfinding signage and street lighting.
A significant overhaul of the city’s permitting process is also set to make doing business in Melbourne even easier, Council says. The City of Melbourne’s new Digital Permits system is set to fast-track and improve the permitting process.
Council issues more than 40,000 permits every year, including construction, on-street trading, business advertising, waste, planning and parking permits.
“The new Digital Permits system will make applying for a planning permit easier than ever. By streamlining this process, we’re letting the world know Melbourne is open for business,” said Cr Reece.
Feedback on the draft Budget 2022–23 can be provided from 6pm Tuesday 17 May to midnight Tuesday 14 June.
After a special meeting of the Future Melbourne Committee to consider community feedback, the final Budget is expected to be adopted by councillors on 28 June.
