$7 Billion Expansion Of Melbourne Central City Planned

North Melbourne’s Arden precinct will be home to up to 15,000 people and up to 34,000 jobs, with new plans today released for development over the next 30 years.

The Andrews Labor Government has released draft plans to create a new commercial and residential precinct across 56 hectares in North Melbourne, between Macaulay Road, Dryburgh Street and the Upfield rail line.

At its heart will be the new Metro Tunnel underground train station – one stop away from Parkville, the CBD and Melbourne’s flourishing west.

The area will be developed gradually over the next 30 years and will retain North Melbourne’s industrial history. There is already a heritage overlay in place to protect historic buildings and North Melbourne’s character.

The draft plans set out a vision for changing land uses, street and open space design, access for pedestrians and cyclists, and the revitalisation of Moonee Ponds Creek.

The Victorian Planning Authority created the Arden Draft Vision & Framework with the City of Melbourne, and the council is also working on a neighbouring residential precinct, Macaulay.

You can now have your say on the Arden Draft Vision & Framework, which is available online at shapevictoria.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne

“Melbourne is growing rapidly. We’re expanding the city to meet demand for new housing and create new jobs.”

“We want people to contribute to Arden’s future plans – this area will be another long-term legacy of Melbourne Metro Rail.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Major Projects Jacinta Allan

“We’re building transport infrastructure that will see a future 15,000 residents have access to turn up and go train services.”

“The Metro Tunnel will create 4,700 jobs and space in the City Loop to run more services in and out of the city every day.”