24 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne Part Two Ideas for West Melbourne
In this part you will find out:
• The draft vision for West Melbourne
• Three strategies and 12 ideas to help deliver the vision and help guide and manage future change in West Melbourne
Phase One Background Community Studies Engagement Urban design and planning Heritage Likes and concerns Transport and movement Economics and employment Visions and priorities Car parking
The draft vision is informed by community input and developed Draft vision for following background studies. west Melbourne
Three strategies have been informed by the community’s top priorities for the structure plan and respond directly to the key issues facing West Melbourne. 3 Strategies
Twelve ideas are proposed to help make the strategies happen and to guide and manage future change in West Melbourne. 12 Ideas
Figure 4.2: Diagram of the inputs and structure of Part Two.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 25 DRAFT VISION for West Melbourne
Visioning is about the future of a place. The draft vision for West Melbourne The subsequent strategies help A vision statement is an expression of (opposite) helps to describe how West explain the vision in greater detail what a place could be like in the future Melbourne could be in the future. It and the 12 ideas suggest ways of how - it is the foundation of the structure has been informed from the feedback the vision and the strategies could be planning process. The vision should from the first phase of community implemented over the next relate to the qualities of what is already engagement, particularly the vision 10 to 15 years. there and focus on what everyone statements written by the community, wants to see happen. and by the range of background studies prepared to help us understand the area. railway place
dryburgh street
north melbourne
spencer street
north melbourne station
hawke street
e-gate
docklands West Melbourne will play a complementary role to the more intensive areas of development which will surround it into the future, retaining its identity and diverse areas of character and mix of uses as it evolves. Its heritage buildings and wide green streets will support residential amenity and commercial and retail opportunity in this distinct, inner urban neighbourhood.. spencer street
victoria street
king street
Flagstaff gardens
hoddle grid
Figure 5.1: Illustrative sketch and photomontages of how West Melbourne could look (indicative only). la trobe street 6. Strategy 1 Create Great Local Places Proposed large open space Current open space expansions Future local open space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) Future large open space required Main streets 30m wide local streets 20m wide local streets
FLOOD EXTENT 1000CM ABOVE SEA LEVEL URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS
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S VICTO Create Great Local Places H RIA ST
G T S R E U K K Make streets places for people with local shops and B W IN Y A G QUEEN R H S services, new open spaces, more street trees, water D QUEEN T VICTORIA T
NORTH S VICTORIA MARKET sensitive urban design and better walking and MELBOURNE L NORTH E MARKET STATION E MELBOURNE cycling routes.
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L I FLAGSTAFF A As a growing neighbourhood, West M
S Melbourne will require additional What did we hear during the first S GARDENS T P E public places for the community phase of community engagement? N C and an increasing population to E R Open space, streets, the public ‘Greening of streets where there exercise, play, shop, meet and S T realm and car parking were all are no nature strips’ relax. West Melbourne’s streets highlighted as important priorities present a variety of opportunities ‘Better access to green space’ by the community during the first to provide for a greater diversity of T phase of engagement. EE ‘Greater activity’ TR uses and activities. E S OB TR Thirteen per cent of comments ‘No all-day street parking other LA The City of Melbourne’s Open Space related to open space and ten per than resident permit’ Strategy (2012) identified a shortage cent to car parking, streets and the ‘More vegetation in Railway of open space in West Melbourne and public realm. the need for a more diverse range of Place’ spaces, including both large and small Individual comments from the ‘Dog park facilities’ open spaces (see Figure 6.1). community included:
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S S V VI ICTORIA CTO H T ST H RIA T ST S S G G E E R R K K U K U W I W K B A N B A I G N Y H QUEEN VICTORIA Y H G QUEEN R S R T S D EADES MARKET D T VICTORIA T T NORTH S PARK NORTH S S L
L MARKET MELBOURNE P MELBOURNE E E E STATION N E STATION E C P P E T ST R Y S Y S LE DLE T UD U D W D W IL IL L L I I A A FLAGSTAFF M FLAGSTAFF M
S S GARDENS T S GARDENS T ProposedProposed open large space at open QVM space P E-GATE E Proposed large open space N C Current open space expansion E Current open space expansions R Current open space expansions S T FutureFuture local local open spaceopen space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) Futurerequired (0.26 local - 0.9 open hectares) space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) Opposite page: Aerial view of West T FutureFuture large large open spaceopen space required ET EE RE TR Future large open space required ST Melbourne looking southwest. Queen E S required BE OB RO Victoria Market is visible in the TR A T LA Main streets L foreground. West Melbourne’s wide MainMain streets streets local streets, including Rosslyn Street 30m wide local streets in the centre of this image, present 30m30 m wide wide local local streets streets opportunities for new and expanded 20m wide local streets LOCAL STREETS WITH MEDIAN PARKING open spaces and more tree planting. 20m20 m wide wide local local streets streets
Figure 6.1: The Open Space Strategy (2012) identified four areas where local open spaces would be required in the future, including a ISSUES large open space in E-gate. Several open spaces are currently undergoing expansion in West Melbourne. Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 29
URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS FLOOD EXTENT 1000CM ABOVE SEA LEVEL URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS
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E L MARKET MELBOURNESTATION P N MELBOURNESTATION E E E P E C P STATION N E STATION E E C R T P T P S S E Y Y R S LE ST LE ST T D D Y S U Y DU D LE W DLE W T UD U D WIL D WIL L L IL IL I I A A L L FLAGSTAFF FLAGSTAFF I M I M A A FLAGSTAFF M S FLAGSTAFF M S GARDENS T S GARDENS T S P S E-GATE GARDENS T S GARDENS E T P E-GATE N E C N E C R E
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LOCAL STREETS WITH MEDIAN PARKING ISSUES Proposed large open space Current open space expansions Future local open space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) Future large open space required Main streets 30m wide local streets 20m wide local streets
Proposed large open space Current open space expansions Future local open space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) FLOOD EXTENT 1000CM ABOVE SEA LEVEL URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS Future large open space required Main streets High - 28 30m wide local streets Medium - 24 Low - 20 20m wide local streets
Street life
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G T S R E U K K West MelbourneB has lessI street life W N Y A G QUEEN R H S D QUEEN T VICTORIA Impacts of climate change T
thanNORTH other inner city neighbourhoodsS VICTORIA MARKET MELBOURNE L NORTH E MARKET STATION E MELBOURNE as it lacks a local centre or place ofP T STATION Y S The climate change adaptation DLE DU community focus. Residents generallyW URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS FLOOD EXTENT 1000CM ABOVE SEA LEVEL IL performance of West Melbourne is L I A go to Errol Street in North Melbourne,FLAGSTAFF M
S S GARDENS low, with a high level of impermeable T Proposed large open space P Queen Victoria Market, EDocklands or N C Current open space expansions surfaces when compared to other E R
the Hoddle Grid to accessS local retail, suburbs in the municipality - 55 per T Future local open space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) supermarkets, dining and entertainment. Future large open space required T cent of the total study area is dedicated EE TR High - 28 Main streets E S OB TR to roadway, parking and footpaths LA Medium - 24 30m wide local streets compared to 39 per cent in City North. Why is this a good Low - 20 20m wide local streets strategy for West Impermeable surfaces prevent water Figure 6.3: Urban Heat Island Effect - surface Proposed large open space filtration and exacerbate flooding Melbourne? temperature (°C). West Melbourne has a high Current open space expansions issues to the west of the precinct (see percentage of impermeable surfaces (55 per Future local open space required (0.26 to 0.9 hectare) Figure 6.4). They also absorb heat and The 30 metre width of most of West cent FLOODroadway, EXTENT parking, 1000CM ABOVE footpaths) SEA LEVEL and lower URBANFuture HEAT large ISLAND open EFFECT space required - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS
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T S S V V ICTOR S I IA Melbourne’s streets allowsCTO for the than averageH canopy cover.T This preventsST water H R IA T ST S V S G contribute to Urban Heat Island Effect G ICTO E 30m wide local streets H RIAE R R K K ST U K U W G I T W K filtration andB contributesA to UrbanN Heat Island provisionB of space for a mix of transport A I G S N Y H QUEEN VICTORIA 20m wide local streets R Y H (see Figure 6.3). West Melbourne has a G QUEEN R S E R T U S D EADES MARKET K D T K Effect by increasing heat absorption. T B VICTORIA T modes. In the past, priority has been NORTH S High - 28 I PARK W NORTH S N Y S public realm tree canopy cover of 19 per L A G L MARKET MELBOURNE P MELBOURNE QUEEN E Medium - 24 R E E
H E STATION N STATION S E P D C QUEEN given to cars.T With increasing densityP E Low - 20 cent, which is lower than in comparable VICTORIAT R ST T S Y Y S LE NORTH LS E T D VICTORIA D U of development in and aroundDU West D W MARKETW L areas such as CarltonMELBOURNE (29 per cent). IL IL NORTH E L MARKET L I E I A STATION A Melbourne, there is a need to giveFLAGSTAFF MELBOURNE FLAGSTAFF M P M
Many of the streets in West Melbourne S
S STATION GARDENS T S T GARDENS T P S E-GATE URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT - SURFACE TEMPERATURE DEGREES CELCIUS greater priority to moreYE efficient FLOOD EXTENT 1000CM ABOVE SEA LEVEL are rated as ‘hot’ or ‘very hot’. LE N D C U T E D S R W VICTO and sustainable transport options, H RIA S ST
T IL G T S R L E U K K particularly walking and cycling.I B I A W N Y A G QUEEN FLAGSTAFF R M H S T Street design T D ET E QUEEN EE TR VICTORIA STR S E S T High - 28 E NORTH B S VICTORIA S GARDENS OB T RO MARKET T L P TR MELBOURNE A NORTH LA L E Medium - 24 MARKET While maintainingE local vehicle access STATION E MELBOURNE N P Low - 20 T STATION Many of the 30 m wide local streets C Y S LE and residentE parking, opportunities UD R D W have central median parking (see Figure IL LOCAL STREETS SWITH MEDIAN PARKING L T I could be identified for reallocating FLAGSTAFF A M
6.5) rather than trees and nature strips S S GARDENS T P asphalt surfaces currently occupied E N as is typical in other neighbourhoods C T E
S R by roadway and some commuter VIC TO H RI ISSUESET S A ST T E G T such as North Melbourne, Carlton and R S T R S E E U B K K parking to higher value uses such as B O W IN R Y T A G QUEEN East Melbourne (see Figure 6.2). This R H LA S D T QUEEN EET VICTORIA R T open space, pedestrian and cycling ST NORTH E S VICTORIA OB MARKET reflects the area’s industrial past. These MELBOURNE TR L NORTH LA E MARKET movement, on-street dining and water STATION E MELBOURNE P T STATION wide local streets often don’t carry Y S LE sensitive urban design. UD D W significant volumes of traffic. As an IL L I FLAGSTAFF A M
example, Railway Place is a one way S Figure 6.4: 10 metre flood extent.S TheGARDENS T West Melbourne’s local streets can P E N street primarily dedicated to parking. topography in West MelbourneC slopes from E become a network of accessible, green R
S Limited connections for vehicles to the and thriving public spaces for the the north-east to the south-west.T During heavy west means that many of the east-west rainfall, flooding occurs at the Dudley Street ET community to enjoy. E T T R ST S S E V underpass and the DynonB RoadVI Bridge. ICTORIA O CTO H T ST streets carry local traffic only. H T TR RIA S S T S A G G L E E R R K K U K U W I W K B A N B A I G N Y H QUEEN VICTORIA Y H G QUEEN R S R T S D EADES MARKET D T
T T VICTORIA T T NORTH S PARK NORTH S S S L S L MARKET V MELBOURNE P I C E MELBOURNE TO E VI E RIA C H E TO T ST STATION N E H RIA STATION T ST S C P P S G E G E T R ST R E S Y R K Y S LE K LE T U D K UD U W U D W D W I W K B A N B IL A I IL G Y H QUEEN VICTORIA N L Y L H I A G R I S QUEEN A R T FLAGSTAFF M FLAGSTAFF M S D EADES MARKET D S T S GARDENS T VICTORIA S GARDENS T T T P E-GATE NORTH S E PARK NORTH S N S L C L MARKET MELBOURNE P T T E E MELBOURNE S S E E R V V ICTOR I E IA CTO H T ST STATIONH S RIA N E T ST S STATION G S T P G C E east melbourne P E R R K K E U K U W I W K R T B A N T B A I S G S N Y H QUEEN VICTORIA Y H Y Y G S QUEEN R S R LE T LE S T D T EADES MARKET D D E D ETT U E E VICTORIA TR T U TR T D W S Hotham street Planting Keep clear S NORTH E S D PARK W NORTH E S B B S O O TR L R L MARKET MELBOURNE IL P T A E MELBOURNE L E IL LA E STATION N E STATION E L L C P P I E I A T A ST R Y S FLAGSTAFF Y FLAGSTAFF M S LE West Melbourne M DLE T UD U D W D W S S IL IL GARDENS T S GARDENS T LOCAL STREETS WITH MEDIAN PARKING L L I P E-GATE I A A FLAGSTAFF M Miller street E FLAGSTAFF Planting parking and storage Keep clear M
S N S GARDENS T S GARDENS T C P E-GATE E E N roden street Planting parking and storage R Keep clear C E S R
T ISSUES S T batman street Planting parking and storage Keep clear
T ET EE RE TR ST E S BE T OB T RO EE TR EE T R LA TR LA ST typical street central median 200m E S BE OB RO TR A T LA L LOCAL STREETS WITH MEDIAN PARKING Figure 6.2: The allocation of space in the central medians of several of West Melbourne’s Figure 6.5: Many of West Melbourne’s local local streets favours car parkingLOCAL and STREETS storage WITH (long MEDIAN term parking) PARKING rather than tree planting streetsISSUES dedicate a large proportion of space to when compared with Hotham Street in East Melbourne. central median car parking.
30 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourneISSUES
Manage parking Increasing open space, tree planting and water sensitive urban design in local streets would have significant environmental benefits for the neighbourhood, including reduced flood risk and mitigating the Urban Heat Island Effect, making West Melbourne a more comfortable and a safer place for the community to enjoy.
Streets could be better designed to reduce the impacts of through traffic and make West Melbourne a safer and more pleasant place for people to get around by walking and cycling. The extension of Hawke Street to the west could significantly improve walking and cycling connections between West Melbourne to E-Gate and Docklands, helping to support local businesses, increase local employment opportunities and provide greater access to shops and community facilities. Figure 6.6: West Melbourne’s 30 metre wide local streets such as Stanley Street present opportunities for new open spaces, tree planting, water sensitive urban design and improved Open spaces in West Melbourne’s walking and cycling infrastructure. local streets would be supported by a greater mix of activities on main streets, particularly Spencer Street, which
could become the ‘high street’ of West D
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Ideas 1, 2, 3 and 4 on the following e e pages suggest how this strategy t to create great local places could be achieved and delivered in West Melbourne. Vic toria Street Ki RAILWAY PLACE STREET n g s tr e et Queen SSp North epn victoria ec ner Melbourne c S market ABBOTSFORD etr re t station Se ree t st r ey e Dudl e HAWKE STREET t E-Gate Fo RODEN STREET ot Flagstaff sc ra STANLEY STREET y Gardens ro ad ROSSLYN STREET Spencer Street - Idea #1 A D BATMAN STREET DE Areas to investigate new or RL EY expanded open space - Idea #2 S t T ree R e st EE rob Hawke Street - Idea #3 T La t
Railway Place - Idea #4 Docklands
Figure 6.7: There could be a number of opportunities to create great local places in West Melbourne, including transforming Spencer Street into a high street and reallocating space in the neighbourhood’s 30 metre wide local streets to new and expanded open space, tree planting and water sensitive urban design.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 31
Proposed opportunity Idea Spencer Street as a local centre #1 Redesign Spencer Street as the ‘high street’ and local centre of West Melbourne.
What is the idea? a This idea proposes to redesign Spencer Street as the ‘high street’ of West Melbourne and be a place to go to, rather than just a through route - similar to Errol Street in North Melbourne, Macaulay Road in Kensington or Brunswick Street in Fitzroy.
Active interfaces on development sites fronting Spencer Street would enhance the existing retail uses already there and help create a vibrant and active mixed use street that supports local businesses to flourish. The street would be redesigned with a greater focus on pedestrians and public transport, with the potential to extend the tram along Spencer Street. The growing population of West Melbourne would be able to access a range of local shops and services within a five minute walk (400 m) of their front door. Figure 6.8: Existing view of shops on Spencer Street at the corner of Stanley Street looking west towards Docklands. This idea is closely related to Idea #9 to transform Spencer Street into a high mobility street for all users (see page 56).
Figure 6.9: Artists’ impression of the potential future treatment of Spencer Street (indicative only).
32 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne Why is this idea proposed? How could this idea work? What could this mean for a new structure plan? Spencer Street is currently a low The area of Spencer Street between amenity arterial route running through Dudley Street and Hawke Street has the • Propose redesigning the street to the centre of West Melbourne. The potential to become the high street of prioritise walking, cycling and public current traffic volumes significantly West Melbourne and provide a greatly transport (also see Idea #9). reduce the quality of the local improved pedestrian environment. environment, making it a noisy and • Propose improvements to the unpleasant place to be. There is an existing fine grain heritage quality, amenity and sustainability retail strip between Stanley and of the street, including new street The level of population growth that is Rosslyn Streets and several corner trees, high quality street furniture, occurring in West Melbourne and its hotels that provide a good foundation lighting and materials. surrounds will drive the emergence of for an expanded activity centre with • Investigate requirements for new population driven services such as more local shops, cafes and restaurants and development to provide active supermarkets, shops and cafes. Spencer outdoor dining (see Figure 6.10). By frontages and a mix of uses along Street, as a street with some of these increasing amenity and footfall, more K Spencer Street through policy and IN uses already and located within the businesses could be supported over G design standards. S centre of West Melbourne, is a desirable time. TR E E location for the concentration of these • Consider the current land use zoning T services to develop a vibrant local A number of strategic development and whether a commercial zone centre for the neighbourhood. sites on Spencer Street, particularly could be more appropriate. south of Hawke Street, provide HAWKE STREET This centre will support a walkable opportunities for the expansion of this neighbourhood by providing access to centre. Several major redevelopments employment opportunities and local are already underway, including at 420 B services within West Melbourne. Spencer Street. This development would RODEN STREET be supported by improved pedestrian amenity including high quality street design, more crossings and better access to public transport. STANLEY STREET AD DE RL EY S TR E E T ROSSLYN STREET
K IN G S C TR DUDLEY STREET E E T
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STANLEY a STREET AD DE RL EY S TR E E T ROSSLYN STREET Spencer Street spine Potential tram stop DUDLEY STREET Potential tram line Heritage sites Sites within Heritage Precinct Overlay 3 Strategic sites Easy to cross Proposed supermarket Figure 6.10: Spencer Street and the privately owned land, local streets and laneways Range of building types that surround it could be enhanced as a local activity centre for West Melbourne.
Spencer Street spine Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 33 Potential tram stop Potential tram line Heritage sites Sites within Heritage Precinct Overlay 3 Strategic sites Easy to cross Proposed supermarket Range of building types SPENCER STREET - PLACE SPENCER STREET - PLACE Idea Grey to green streets #2 Better utilise street space to reallocate a proportion of asphalt to open space, more street trees and water management.
What is the idea?
This idea proposes to transform some areas within West Melbourne’s wide local streets to beautiful green spaces for the community to enjoy. A proportion of the space currently allocated to on-street parking, traffic and turning areas may be better used to provide new open spaces, trees and water sensitive urban design while retaining local vehicle access and resident parking.
Why is this idea proposed?
The vision for West Melbourne’s transport network into the future is to reduce car dependence and create a sustainable, walkable and cycle friendly suburb with high quality public transport.
Figure 6.11: Looking northeast along Stanley Street from Spencer Street, showing the wide vehicle lanes, kerb and median car parking and street trees.
Rankins Road and Eastwood Street Reserve, Kensington
There could be opportunities in West Melbourne to increase open space by undertaking similar park expansion projects to this one in Kensingston.
The design of recent park expansion at the intersection of Rankins Road and Eastwood Street (adjacent to Kensington Railway Station) has transformed underutilised roadway into usable open space for the community to enjoy. Existing curb Existing Expansion Park Rankins Road N
Eastwood street
Kensington Station
Park expansion Existing kerb
34 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne There is insufficient open space in West How could this idea work? Streets and buildings can be designed Melbourne and mounting pressure on to provide an appropriate level of existing open spaces as the population By proactively managing parking in parking for the changing needs of the grows. Currently, 10 per cent of the West Melbourne, some space allocated community and emerging technologies total area of West Melbourne is to parking, wide traffic lanes and wide can help us use cars, and the space they open space, while over half of the turning areas in local streets could be occupy, more efficiently. neighbourhood (approximately 55 per used to help increase open space, tree cent) is dedicated to asphalt in 30 m planting, water sensitive urban design wide streets. and improve pedestrian and cycling routes. What could this mean for a new A significant proportion of street space structure plan? is dedicated to on-street parking. There This could be done while retaining local are around 3300 on-street parking vehicle access and parking for local • Use a design process to test options spaces in West Melbourne, many more residents and businesses. to reallocate hard surface areas to than in similar sized areas such as green space. Carlton. Other inner-city neighbourhoods such as North Melbourne and Carlton • Rationalise on-street spaces to About one third of total on-street demonstrate how wide local streets accommodate an appropriate spaces are allocated to residential can incorporate linear parks, small amount of local on-street parking parking permits. Residents are exempt open spaces and water sensitive urban and vehicle storage. from the fees and time restrictions design, while maintaining local vehicle • Investigate reallocating some on these spaces. These spaces are access and parking. asphalt surfaces in wide local streets also available to other users, such as to open space, street tree planting There are several examples in West commuters accessing North Melbourne and improved walking and cycling Melbourne where portions of road Station and jobs in the central city and routes. patrons attending events at Etihad space and car parking have been Stadium, Festival Hall and Queen transformed into green space. For • Use wide local streets as integrated Victoria Market. This arrangement can example the Howard and William Street elements of a wider water create issues for local residents, visitors Reserve and currently underway Hawke catchment area and integrate water and workers at different times of the and Adderley Street Park expansion, management with street design. week. where the acquisition of a neighbouring property and some road space has • Investigate appropriate off-street parking rates for new development. The remaining two thirds of on-street enabled the creation of 740 m² of new spaces include a combination of fees open space. • Support an increase in access to car and time restrictions at different times share and other emerging transport of the week. By improving access to innovative services. transport services such as car share, The high proportion of impermeable expanding public transport services • Investigate 40 km/h speed limits on asphalt surfaces contributes to the and upgrading walking and cycling local streets. Urban Heat Island Effect and flooding, infrastructure, the need for private reducing the sustainability and amenity vehicle ownership and usage can be of the neighbourhood. reduced.
1 car space = 12.5m Car Sharing
Research has shown that every car share vehicle takes nine private cars off the road (Car Share 2.5 m On-street or O-street 5 m Services Review, Phillip Boyle & Associates for the City of Melbourne, 2015). Car share helps to reduce car ownership and overall car usage and frees up space used for on-street parking for higher value Paid or Free Shared or Private uses such as open space, tree planting, walking, cycling and public transport.
There are currently 23 car share vehicles in West Melbourne. Car share vehicles can be stored on or Permit or Public Open or Reserved off street and can provide people moving into the area another alternative to the private car. Parking spaces with a 4P - + time limit greater than 4 hours are considered Parking or Storage ‘vehicle storage’ Figure 6.12: The many different ways of prioritising and managing parking spaces.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 35 Idea Hawke Street #3 Create a linear park between Errol Street and Railway Place using part of the road reserve with the potential for a future link to E-Gate and Docklands.
What is the idea? The heavy traffic on Hawke Street to At the wider strategic scale, Hawke the northeast of Spencer Street has Street presents an opportunity to This idea proposes to make Hawke a detrimental effect on the heritage provide a key link with surrounding Street a key people and active transport character of the street and its sense of areas. The success of the Waterfront street, linking the West Melbourne a coherent identity. Safety issues have City precinct in Docklands along with community to Errol Street and North been identified at the intersection with Arden and E-Gate will, to a large Melbourne as well as E-Gate and King Street as well as conflict between degree, depend on greater integration Docklands into the future. Part of fast moving vehicles and access to within the expanded central city. Hawke Street could form a linear park central median parking. Overcoming the separation of these linking a series of green spaces, while areas by the railway lines will be still retaining local vehicle access. The low scale heritage buildings along important in addressing this issue. Hawke Street could also be extended the northern side of Hawke Street to the west via a pedestrian and cycling would help to provide an attractive, Improved bicycle access on Hawke bridge to form a future active transport characterful backdrop to a new linear Street would provide an important link connection into E-Gate and Docklands. park, while also helping ensure the new in the wider cycling network. Existing park receives plenty of sunlight. routes on Victoria and Adderley Why is this idea proposed? Streets, and a potential route on How could this idea work? Spencer Street, would be strengthened Hawke Street is a local West Melbourne by safe, dedicated bicycle lanes on street but is used as a through traffic Hawke Street should be considered as Hawke Street. There is the potential route between Spencer Street and one continuous street from Errol Street for extending this route to E-Gate and King Street. It has a distinctly West to Railway Place in order to improve its Docklands in the future. Melbourne character with a mix function as an important walking and of Victorian terraces and cottages cycling link through the neighbourhood, intermingled with warehouses, corner while acknowledging the different pubs, small parks and contemporary characteristics along its length. developments.
Byens Bro Bridge, Odense Denmark
The Byens Bro (City’s Bridge) in Odense, Denmark is a pedestrian and cycling bridge connecting the old city to new development areas by the harbour.
The bridge is 200 metres long and spans more than 15 active railway lines with a light weight, elegant design.
A similar structure aligned with Hawke Street could help facilitate movement between West Melbourne and Docklands and the planned urban renewal area of E-Gate into the future. Photo: Ole Malling
36 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne An extension of Hawke Street via a What could this mean for a new A pedestrian and cycling bridge across structure plan? the railway lines would create a direct link between the Errol Street shops and • Propose upgrading and expanding Little Docklands Drive. Along with other existing open spaces along Hawke street enhancements, Hawke Street Street. could become a key walking and cycling • Propose reallocating some roadway route through the centre of West and parking to create a linear park. Melbourne to these adjacent activity centres. • Further investigate extending Hawke Street to the west to provide a green Street enhancements could be pedestrian and cycling link to E-Gate complemented by reconfiguring the and Docklands. Hawke, Errol, King and Victoria Streets junction. Expansion of the existing • Consider options to reconfigure open spaces – King and Victoria Street the Hawke, Errol, King and Victoria Reserve and Hawke and King Street Street junction. Reserve - would deliver upgraded open Figure 6.13: Existing mixed character on Hawke spaces while improving pedestrian and Street southwest of Spencer Street. cycling access between West Melbourne and the Errol Street activity centre. Indicative street sections of North
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r r Existing Melbourne E North K Victor tram stop in ia Str melbourne g eet t St P station P P r ee ee r t 250m to t Dynon Road West Hawke Street s Potential W Bridge e New tram Bridge este k rn d stop Footpath Footpath is Parking Trac Trac Median/ parking Trac Trac Parking Melbourne tri w but a Sp or e North H n K c in 30 metres e melbourne g r S t S t t r station r e e Ad d e ee e e t t E-GateFigure 6.15: Existing street sectionr l r e y 250m to t S R t a r Hawke Street s Potential il e Hawke Street w e a t DUDLEY STREET y b W Bridge e New tram i e p k st bridge l e er k a p n stop c a d e t is h tr w C ibu A S ap t to a p ita F e r e l c oo e H n ity t r tr sc t c ail ra s 250m to e y w r ro e Hawke Street S ad n t Bridge r e Ad d e e t E-Gate r e Dudley l iv e Dr P P y nds Street S la R t ck underpass a r Do il e le Hawke Street w e itt a t DUDLEY STREET L y b p ik l e bridge a Proposed Footpath Footpath p Parking Bike Trac Median Trac Bike Parking c a e t New primary h C school ap t Docklands ita F e (Location to be 30 metres l c oo e ity t r confirmed) tr sc t ail ra s 250m to y w Figure 6.16: Potential street section ro e ad n Hawke Street Bridge with central linear park
e Dudley riv Urban renewal area s D Street and ckl underpass Strategic site Do tle Existing open space Lit Existing bike path Proposed Proposed bike path New primary Tram route school Docklands P P (Location to be Tram stop confirmed) Railway lines Train station Footpath Footpath Parking Trac Trac Parking Bike lanes Park Existing bridge Proposed bridge 30 metres Underpass Figure 6.17: Potential street section Figure 6.14: There is the potential for extending Hawke Street with linear park on one side Urban renewalacross area the railway lines to connect into E-Gate and Docklands. Strategic site Existing open space Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 37 Existing bike path Proposed bike path Tram route Tram stop Railway lines Train station Existing bridge Proposed bridge Underpass Hawke Street
Hawke Street Idea Railway Place #4 Design a high amenity shared street to improve pedestrian connections to North Melbourne Station and the future Arden precinct.
What is the idea?
This idea proposes to enhance Railway Place as a shared space for walking, cycling and local access and to enable a key pedestrian link to North Melbourne Station and Arden. The design would celebrate views over the railway yards and Docklands and create a place to stop and enjoy the views and a place to play. Water sensitive urban design, planting and street furniture could transform the street into an attractive route to pass through and serve as a great place in its own right.
Why is this idea proposed?
Railway Place is a one way street running from Rosslyn Street (Festival Hall) at its southern end to the soon to be established Railway Place and Miller Street Reserve (under Dynon Road Figure 6.18: Railway Place looking south east with views over the rail lines to Docklands Bridge) at its northern end. It forms the western edge of the residential area of West Melbourne.
Figure 6.19: Artists’ impression of the potential future treatment of Railway Place (indicative only).
38 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne North Melbourne Station is a major Railway Place is constrained by Potential future pedestrian and bicycle public transport interchange located at overhead power lines and a high connections from E-Gate and Docklands the intersection of Railway Place and pressure gas pipeline that runs could potentially connect into West Dryburgh Street. underneath the road, meaning deep Melbourne via Railway Place, making it soil planting of significant trees is not an important place from which to enter Railway Place is lined with a mix of possible in some parts. A sound wall the neighbourhood. residential cottages, new and converted was constructed along part of Railway apartment buildings and warehouses on Place to mitigate the impact of the What could this mean for a new its eastern side. Although not a through Regional Rail Link Project, with the new structure plan? traffic route, parking is permitted on railway alignment located immediately both sides of the street, attracting adjacent to the road, forming a visual • Propose shared surface to increase commuters and visitors to nearby barrier at the southern end. safety for pedestrians and bicycles cultural facilities. and incorporate areas for play and How could this idea work? seating. North of Hawke Street, there is a significant level change from the street • Propose increase planting and water
Railway Place has a number of t
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• Maintain vehicle access and local u u Dynon a b West railway yards to Docklands, low traffic L y Low to medium scale native vegetation resident car parking, rather than Road r volumes, direct pedestrian connections D Melbourne lines the escarpment and adds to longer term commuter parking. bridge between Dudley Street, local streets, t its distinct character. Some water North e North Melbourne Station and Arden. • Investigate improving pedestrian e melbourne tr infrastructure and new planting has s access around North Melbourne station e k w recently been established on the a There are opportunities to enhance it as Station. H western side of the road with plans to a great place through seating, planting R a expand this further on the eastern side il and places for informal play along the w a (in accordance with the North and West y street itself and at the intersections of p l Melbourne Urban Forest Precinct Plan). a local streets. Design treatments could c e A dd be continued to improve the area er t Vehicle le ree Hawke y st around North Melbourne Station. access st ey Street re dl maintained et Du E-Gate bridge b t ik e t e p e e a e t r Festival h
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e h e r n Arden g t s r r e u u t a Dynon a b West G L y - E Road r D bridge Melbourne Dudley t Street North e e underpass melbourne tr s station e k w a H
R a il Figure 6.21: There could be w opportunities for water sensitive a y p urban design in Railway Place, l a such as this example in Royal c e A dd Seaport, Stockholm, Sweden. er t Vehicle le ree Hawke y st access st ey Street re dl maintained et Du Urban renewal area E-Gate bridge b ik e Strategic site p a Festival t h Open space hall t e Existing bike path e r t Proposed bike path s e t a G Railway lines - E Train station Dudley Existing bridge Street Proposed bridge underpass Underpass Views
Figure 6.20: Railway Place could be redesigned as a shared street with improved pedestrian access to North Melbourne Station and Arden.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 39
Urban renewal area Strategic site Open space Existing bike path Proposed bike path Railway lines Train station Existing bridge Proposed bridge Underpass Railway place Views
Railway place 7. Strategy 1 Create Great Local Places Strategy 2 Support Good Growth Ensure growth relates better to its context, includes complementary forms of development and incorporates a range of uses to support a growing population.
West Melbourne is currently experiencing significant levels What did we hear during the first of growth, well beyond that phase of community engagement? which was previously planned for the area. The majority of During the first phase of ‘Certainty of building heights for engagement, the community’s top both developers and residents’ this new growth is residential priorities for the structure plan development - there are currently ‘To have a variety of heights and related to issues around built form, types of buildings’ more than 4000 dwellings in the land use and the quality of new development pipeline for West development. ‘Mixed use within development Melbourne (this includes proposals or block’ under construction, approved or About a quarter of comments awaiting planning approval), the related to built form and eight ‘Additional commercial space to provide more shops’ majority of which are one and two per cent to the planning process bedroom apartments. This would and greater certainty about built ‘Ensure the scale of new form. Heritage protection and more than double the existing buildings is respectful to existing provisionExisting of appropriate Design community and development buildings’ overlays land use zoning population of West Melbourne. infrastructure were also important Existing Design and development overlays priorities for the structure plan. ‘Protection of heritage buildings’ West Melbourne is identified as an ‘other local area’ of incremental growth Mixed use zone Individual comments from the General Residential Zone 1 within the current Municipal Strategic community included: Commercial 1 Zone Statement (part of the Melbourne Public Use Zone 3, 4, 6 Public Park and Recreation Zone Planning Scheme), located between the Development under construction intense growth currently occurring in Development with approved permit the central city and the more stable area Current planning application of North Melbourne.
However, current state planning policies, as identified in Plan Melbourne (the current Metropolitan Planning Strategy for Melbourne), also encourage and
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P North North P melbourne and transport. market melbourne market station station Recent planning decisionsST by the T Y Y S LE LE Victorian Civil UandD Administrative UD D WW D W ILIL Tribunal (VCAT) have referred to sites IL LL L II AA I within West Melbourne being ideal A Flagstaff MM Flagstaff M
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Opposite page: Aerial view of West Melbourne looking east towards the Figure 7.1: The Design and Development Overlays that apply to West Melbourne includes Hoddle Grid, showing the varying height limits ranging from 10.5 m to 40 m. This reflects the diverse built form character across character and scale of the built form. the neighbourhood.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 41
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New residential developments (between 2002-2015) Development activity monitor Issues In recent years, there has been Since these controls were introduced, The redevelopment of many sites significant development in areas the scale of development in the central in West Melbourne from industry to of West Melbourne that specify city has increased considerably, having a predominantly residential development ‘discretionary’ maximum height controls significant impact on the interpretation is also having a significant impact in the Melbourne Planning Scheme of ‘clear distinction’ when considering on the mixed use character of West - Design and Development Overlays development in West Melbourne and Melbourne and on employment levels, 28, 29 and 33 (see Figure 7.1 on page how it ‘transitions’ from the central city. which have reduced by around 25 per 41). In these areas, development cent over the last decade. This reduces can currently exceed the ‘discretionary’ The current Design and Development the opportunities for businesses to maximum building height requirement Overlays for West Melbourne, derived find more affordable locations than where a proposed development from the 2005 West Melbourne the central city and Docklands but still achieves design objectives and built Structure Plan, provide somewhat broad within close proximity of these areas to form outcomes specified in the schedule brush, blanket controls over relatively provide support services or help grow to the Design and Development Overlay large areas. They do not respond to the new businesses. (DDO). characteristics of specific areas or sites within West Melbourne, particularly its What do we mean by ‘good The current strategic approach to heritage areas and buildings. growth’? development in West Melbourne (as Not only does this level of flexibility referenced in the Melbourne Planning This strategy is to support ‘good provide greater uncertainty for both Existing Design and development overlays Scheme)land refers use to a zoning clear distinction in growth’ and ensure the type and use the community and applicants, it Existing Design and development overlays scale from the central city, with higher of development in West Melbourne also means that levels of supporting scales of development located at the plays a complementary role to the more infrastructure, such as open space and fringeMixed of the use centralzone city and around intensive areas which surround it while community facilities, are not matching NorthGeneral Melbourne Residential Station. Zone Design 1 and retaining its intrinsic character. DevelopmentCommercial Overlay 1 Zone 33 CBD Fringe the levels of development. There is Public Use Zone 3, 4, 6 includes a design objective ‘to provide a currently no agreed mechanism in place The proposed strategic approach Public Park and Recreation Zone transition between the taller built form to ensure that additional infrastructure Development under construction for good growth in West Melbourne is provided when greater levels of of theDevelopment central city with and approved the lower permit scale is to support appropriate levels of builtCurrent form of planning West Melbourne’. application development are proposed than that high quality development in the right envisaged in the current planning locations within West Melbourne. controls. This means greater recognition of West Melbourne as a place of value in its own right, rather than treating it as a transitional zone between the
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S Existing Design and development overlays S land use zoning T (DDO29) T Existing Design and development overlays Mandatory 14 metres (DDO32) T Discretionary 40 metres Mixed use zone EE ET TR (DDO33 ) RE General Residential Zone 1 E S ST OB BE Commercial 1 Zone TR Mandatory 10.5m metres RO LA A T Public Use Zone 3, 4, 6 (DDO 31/34) L Public Park and Recreation Zone Development under construction Development with approved permit Current planning application
Figure 7.2: Land use zoning and Development Activity Monitor (2016). The majority of West Melbourne is designated as Mixed Use Zone. There are also areas designated as General Residential Zone, Commercial 1 Zone, Public Use Zone 3 Public Park and Recreation Zone. There is significant development pressure in West Melbourne. Approximately 4000 dwellings are in the pipeline (applied, approved, under construction).
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New residential developments (between 2002-2015) Development activity monitor Issues Good growth in West Melbourne will Like the rest of Melbourne, West Good growth will provide greater complement surrounding areas by Melbourne should help mitigate the certainty to the community and providing alternative, highly sustainable, impacts of climate change by reducing applicants, while continuing to make forms of development, and a range greenhouse gas emissions and taking the best use of inner city land that of building types that will continue adaptive measures to reduce the provides a balanced mix of different to support a diverse community. It impacts of predicted climate change on housing types and jobs, providing will be largely mid-rise development, people and the environment. future generations with housing and but with some lower built form in the work opportunities. It will support a predominantly residential and heritage Good growth in West Melbourne range of uses that complement its areas, and scope for some taller built should be of the highest design and location adjacent to the central city and form around North Melbourne Station environmental standards and be proximity to the medical precinct, as and closer to the city. It will ensure adaptable to change, providing a well as being a place where people can good levels of sunlight and daylight to range of housing and employment easily and safely walk to local services streets and spaces and human scale opportunities over time. There are and everyday needs such as shops streets. considerable opportunities for new and cafes, open space, childcare and development in West Melbourne to doctors. Heritage buildings will be better respond to the challenges of climate protected, reused and celebrated, change at a precinct-wide scale. Good growth provides an integrated enhancing West Melbourne’s character. approach to planning for the future Existing buildings that are no longer This includes responding to localised and providing the right infrastructure required for their original use can issues of flooding through more water and services to support the level of present good opportunities for sensitive urban design and promoting development planned for the area. adaptation and maintaining a diversity green roofs. There is also significant of activities and uses in the area. Often potential for West Melbourne to The ideas for this strategy do not these buildings are valued by the local become a solar neighbourhood by propose changing substantially the community and are highly adaptable. utilising existing and new rooftops to current land use zoning within West generate zero-carbon energy through Melbourne. It is considered that the solar panels. predominant Mixed Use Zone is the most appropriate zoning to help achieve the vision for West Melbourne, although consideration could be given to providing specific schedules for
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Heritage sites Growth opportunity areas T REE Strategic sites E ST DOCKLANDS ROB LA T
Figure 7.3: West Melbourne has a range of site sizes and areas of varying heritage significance creating very different conditions for potential development throughout the area.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 43
Proposed opportunity Idea Built Form #5 Create more responsive controls that directly address the attributes of a site and its context.
What is the idea?
This idea proposes to review the current built form controls (as defined in the Design and Development Overlays) and move to a more refined set of controls related to the characteristics of a particular site or smaller area within West Melbourne. This will help ensure that new growth responds better to the local context and characteristics of West Melbourne, helping to retain and enhance the area’s distinctiveness.
Why is this idea proposed?
Some of the current built form controls in West Melbourne, particularly Design and Development Overlays 29 and 33 (see Figure 7.1 on page 41), are relatively ‘broad brush’ and apply over a large area of varied character. As such, the controls can sometimes fail to provide adequate guidance for the Figure 7.6: There are several large warehouse sites in West Melbourne with distinct development of sites in a way that is characteristics such as this wholesale retailer located on the corner of Spencer Street and appropriate to the local context and Hawke Street. The redevelopment of sites such as this require more refined built form controls characteristics of a particular site. to help retain and enhance the area’s local character.
The ability of the current controls to Such characteristics could include the When the current Design and respond to particular attributes is size of a site, the impact of heritage Development Overlay controls were important in West Melbourne where buildings, whether it fronts a main street considered by an independent Planning the subdivision pattern is not uniform or local street, the topography of West Panel in 2006, it was thought that the and the site attributes vary significantly Melbourne, the height and form of introduction of discretion in the control throughout the neighbourhood. This nearby buildings, the impact on public of building heights should not lead to pattern reflects the history of land spaces and proximity to public transport any substantial divergence overall from use in the neighbourhood with larger (see Figure 7.5). More specific built form the preferred height limit of 40 metres industrial sites interspersed with smaller controls can also support a better urban within the CBD Fringe area (Design and residential and commercial sites and is design outcome and provide a variety of Development Overlay 33). part of the character of the place. heights in the right locations to define main streets and corners. To ensure the future liveability of West Melbourne, the growing population will need to be supported by associated infrastructure such as open space, better walking and cycling routes and community infrastructure. The significant deviation from current open space controls makes it harder to plan for this x Heritage supporting infrastructure. LANE metres Public transport N E I N
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o G f H the new structure plan will allow for i n t B O e an update of population forecasts to U R Site size r f a
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Figure 7.5: The different attributes of a site, including its size, shared boundaries, number of street interfaces, heritage value and distance from transport and local services can influence the scale, form and use of the design response.
44 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne How could this idea work? be given to introducing preferred ensure that there is adequate separation maximum and absolute maximum between buildings and the street, When considering more refined controls. Such a control would set a public space is protected from wind and specific built form controls, discretionary limit, with its inherent and overshadowing, and development consideration could be given in the flexibility, but with a higher mandatory opportunities provide public benefits. draft structure plan to mandatory built control. This could provide the right A base floor area ratio of 18:1 has been form controls for particular areas given balance by allowing for growth, while introduced in the central city, with the mixed and varied character of West creating a well-designed, sustainable discretion to agree to a floor area Melbourne. outcome that would integrate well uplift bonus if all relevant built form with the existing built form of West parameters are met and a public benefit While planning controls in Victoria are Melbourne and ensure appropriate is provided back to the community. predominantly performance based, public benefits were provided back to meaning they specify the objectives the community (see Idea #6). that need to be achieved and provide a degree of flexibility on how it is The preferred maximum and absolute What could this mean for a new achieved, there are circumstances maximum controls could be expressed structure plan? where mandatory controls would as a plot ratio (the amount of provide certainty and could deliver a development relative to the size of the • Develop new built form controls preferable outcome. site - see Figure 7.8 on page 47), for West Melbourne that better and/or building storey heights. respond to local context, individual Given the infill and incremental type site characteristics and the 2016 of growth in West Melbourne, as Development above a preferred Heritage Review findings (as opposed to large scale urban renewal maximum control would need to ensure endorsed by the Future Melbourne in areas such as Arden-Macaulay and character and amenity objectives are Committee in May 2016). Fishermans Bend, the contextual issues still achieved and criteria would need are more constraining and, as such, to be clearly articulated to this effect. • Consider the introduction of mandatory controls may be appropriate Community benefit would need to be mandatory built form controls in particular locations as long as provided if development was proposed outside of the growth opportunity they are not aimed at unreasonably above the preferred maximum height, areas (see Figure 7.3 on page 43). restricting built form but at facilitating a and could still not exceed the absolute • Consider the introduction of good design outcome. Planning Practice maximum controls. preferred maximum and absolute Note 59 sets out the grounds for when maximum controls (plot ratio mandatory controls are appropriate and Built form controls could also consider controls and/or height controls) for refers to the potential for mandatory how to support complementary the growth opportunity areas (see controls in areas of high heritage value forms and types of development to Figure 7.3 on page 43). and strong and consistent character those in surrounding areas. To do this, themes. consideration could be given to other • Further investigate other controls, widely used controls, such as building such as street wall heights and site Mandatory controls can also have the height to street width ratios and site coverage controls (the total amount significant benefits of helping create coverage controls. As well as utilising of the site which can be developed) a more realistic land value, which planning controls to help deliver high to help promote a range of building can help support more appropriate quality, well-designed proposals, it is types, models and forms. forms of development that optimise, also important that applicants employ rather than maximise sites. They can good design teams, develop a clear • Understand the application of the be further justified if they flow from design rationale and partake in a design above controls at the detailed level a comprehensive structure planning review process. This will help to deliver on a site by site basis, focusing on process which responds to submissions ‘good growth’ in West Melbourne that identified strategic sites. and engagement with the community responds positively to its varied and • Following the revision of the built and key stakeholders. Furthermore, diverse character. form controls, update population they can help to resolve divergent forecasts to ensure future growth is opinions and ensure a coherent built Where has this been done before? met with an associated increase in form outcome is achieved over time community infrastructure. that may not be achieved with a Mandatory controls for overall height site by site approach. They can also and street wall height were supported help reduce administrative costs on in Arden-Macaulay by the Planning council, applicants and the community Panel and mandatory height controls and provide greater certainty and and have also been introduced in acceptance from all stakeholders. Fishermans Bend. In the central city, new permanent planning controls For other areas which have greater following the Central City Built Form opportunity for good growth and are Review have been introduced to guide closer to the central city and North development and support the long-term Melbourne Station, consideration could liveability. The new controls will help
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 45 Idea Community Benefit #6 Develop ways to help deliver community benefits.
What is the idea? Why is this idea proposed? The areas proposed to further consider floor area uplifts are the ‘Growth This idea proposes to develop ways West Melbourne will need a range of opportunity areas’ (see Figure 7.3 to help provide and fund community new services and infrastructure to on page 43). These areas are benefits in West Melbourne that match help support the growing community. those currently zoned for mixed use the levels of growth planned for the While the City of Melbourne continues development, are close to public area. Community benefits could include to invest significantly in infrastructure, transport and the central city and still additional open space (beyond that the two mechanisms of floor area uplift have some significant redevelopment already required in the Melbourne and development contributions are two potential due to the size of sites. Planning Scheme), affordable housing, recognised and accepted ways to also There are also potentially some select street improvements or community help deliver required infrastructure, strategic development sites outside spaces. The two mechanisms currently often as a result of the scale of of these areas which could also be being considered include Floor development proposed, and ensure that considered further for a floor area uplift. Area Uplifts and a Development the area can successfully accommodate Contributions Plan for West Melbourne. such growth. Both mechanisms can While the controls for this threshold help ensure that the cost of providing will be considered through a design- Floor Area Uplifts new infrastructure is shared between led process and iterative testing as developers and the wider community on the draft structure plan is developed, This mechanism proposes to implement a fair and reasonable basis. consideration could be given to the a threshold level of development, which current 40m ‘discretionary’ height can be increased within a specified As recognised in the introduction of the control within DDO33 area and the 4 limit in return for demonstrable recent built form controls in the central storey ‘discretionary’ height control and commensurate community city, the combination of an allowable within DDO29 as the threshold density benefit provided on the site of the floor area ratio control with a planning control in those two areas. development. This idea would work framework that incentivises ‘the alongside the proposed reform of built delivery of public benefit through the This will ensure that development in form controls in Idea #5. permitting of increased development the neighbourhood is matched by a yield is accepted practice in Australia proportionate increase in infrastructure The floor area uplift allowed beyond a and internationally and has delivered for the community. The specific threshold control would need to ensure demonstrable benefits’ (Central City characteristics of individual sites, such that character and amenity objectives Built Form Review Synthesis Report as its size, location, access to public were still achieved and criteria would (Hodyl+Co, 2016, p7). transport and neighbouring uses need to be clearly articulated to this will influence the appropriateness of effect. It will be important to ensure the How could this idea work? providing particular benefits. vision for the area is not lost and that West Melbourne remains distinct from The threshold limit to increase (within Development contributions could be the central city, even with floor area a specified maximum control) to allow required from all development in the uplifts. floor area uplifts would be considered West Melbourne area above a particular as the built form controls are revised threshold. A Development Contributions Development Contributions Plan and refined (see Idea #5). As recognised Plan would list infrastructure items in the Central City Built form Review to be delivered over a particular time This mechanism proposes to develop Synthesis Report (Hodyl+Co, 2016), frame (such as over 15 years), their a Development Contributions Plan setting an allowable floor area ratio is associated cost and the development to collect funds that will contribute not an exact science that will determine contributions required for different to the delivery of essential public the most ideal ratio. It is about setting development types. This is often a infrastructure necessary to help a reasonable threshold where the floor set cost per dwelling or particular support the growing community of area ratio is considered commensurate floor space for other development. West Melbourne. This could include with the scale of development that The plan would be implemented by streetscape works (such as those can be accommodated on a particular applying a Development Contributions proposed in this discussion paper), site within the context of West Plan Overlay over West Melbourne in community facilities and sustainability Melbourne and the proposed vision of the Melbourne Planning Scheme. All improvements, such as permeable being distinct and complementary to proposed development in that overlay paving and water sensitive urban design surrounding areas. area would be required to provide to help reduce flooding. Development development contributions, irrespective Contributions would be amalgamated of whether they were to also include a from each development towards floor area uplift. specified, costed and prioritised infrastructure for the area.
46 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne Floor Area Ratio (FAR) 2:1 Ratio
2 storeys (100% site coverage)
Where has this been done before? What could this mean for a new structure plan? Proposed controls in Arden Macaulay Floor Area Ratio (FAR) allow additional development in 2:1 Ratio • Following the built form review particular areas for community benefit. and revised population forecast, identify community needs for The concept of providing floor area services and infrastructure to be uplifts has recently been introduced in delivered through floor area uplifts the central city, where a floor area ratio and development contributions. (FAR) of 18:1 has been introduced as a This will provide a clear connection threshold density control. This control between increased4 storeys population and is then paired with the option for community infrastructure. developers to pursue a floor area uplift (50% site coverage) for those who may be able to develop • Further investigate how a floor area at densities higher than 18:1. The floor uplift could work in appropriate area uplift triggers a value sharing areas in West Melbourne. mechanism in the form of benefits back • Develop a draft Development to the city. 2 storeys (100% site coverage) Contributions Plan, with costings and priorities for projects proposed Development Contributions are a within the structure plan. common requirement throughout Melbourne, including in Fishermans Bend and other areas of growth within the City of Melbourne.
8 storeys Figure 7.8: The diagram on the (25% site coverage) right explains the concept of floor area ratio or plot ratio. 4 storeys The ratio is determined by the (50% site coverage) Floor Area Uplift (FAU) amount of development relative to the size of the site. 2.5:1 Ratio
The first box highlights the different forms a floor area ratio of 2:1 can take. A floor area ratio of 2:1 allows twice the amount of development on a site as the size of the site itself. This can cover the whole site if two storeys (top), 4 storeys if half the site (middle) or 8 storeys if only a quarter of the site is developed (bottom).
The second box shows an increased floor area ratio of 2.5:1 in return for delivering an agreed community benefit. This 5 storeys means that the development (50% site coverage) can accommodate two and half times the site area, which in the 8 storeys example shown would equal +25% development 5 storeys, if half the site was (25% site coverage) developed. bonus with public benefit Floor Area Uplift (FAU) 2.5:1 Ratio
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 47
5 storeys (50% site coverage)
+25% development bonus with public benefit Idea Mixed Use #7 Encourage a diverse range of building types and a mix of uses through policy.
What is the idea?
This idea proposes that West Melbourne will continue to grow as a vibrant, mixed use inner city neighbourhood. Buildings of diverse type, scale and age will provide a range of different spaces that support a mix of uses. The area will continue to accommodate uses that benefit from West Melbourne’s proximity to the central city, principle transport networks and major health and educational facilities.
Why is this idea proposed?
Walkable, diverse, mixed use neighbourhoods share certain attributes. They are compact, with many smaller sites accommodating buildings of different types and ages. Frontages of buildings contribute to a safe and attractive public realm. Figure 7.9: The historic fabric of West Melbourne has supported a mix of land uses within its diverse range of building types, such as here in Hawke Street.
Figure 7.10: Stanley Street has a mix of industrial, commercial and residential uses.
48 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne Mixed use can refer to a range of The strategic location of West The protection of heritage buildings and different uses throughout an area or Melbourne in relation to the health the preservation of existing buildings where an individual building includes a and education clusters presents regardless of heritage protection will variety of uses, often on different levels. opportunities for the location of medical ensure that a range of different spaces and research facilities and affordable are offered in West Melbourne that can West Melbourne has historically housing for students and staff of nearby support a greater variety of uses. supported a mix of uses including employment hubs. warehousing and manufacturing. As a Consideration could be given to result there is a wide range of site sizes, Traditionally serving as the location for introducing a schedule to the mixed use from small residential sites under supporting uses close to the central zone for West Melbourne to help ensure 200 m² to large warehouses and city, West Melbourne could continue to that the area continues to support a mix factories up to 9000 m². This level of provide an alternative offering to the of uses. building diversity has come from the central city, enabling smaller start-up many uses that have been in the area. businesses, co-working spaces and What could this mean for a new These are conducive to a mix of uses as housing that supports working from structure plan? they provide a range of opportunities home. for businesses that require different • Investigate how best to preserve the
types of spaces close to the central city. How could this idea work? historic subdivision pattern in fine D grain areas.
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culture in the neighbourhood. With an larger sites. The development of fine e e
existing cluster of arts and culture in grain areas with many smaller sites is t Melbourne. North Melbourne, the transition away more conducive to mixed use due to • Identify larger sites that can provide from industrial uses in West Melbourne the inherent diversity of building age, a varied building typology and mix offers the opportunity for new land uses type and architectural design, more of uses. Victoria that complement the emerging increase active interfaces and close proximity. Street in residential and other uses. • Review the mixed use zoneK to Development of larger sites can be ing identify opportunities for delivering managed by requiring active interfaces, str genuine mixed use or consideringe through-block pedestrian links and a et diversity of different building types on revising parts of Spencer Street as
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et tre be s central city tro La 0-500 square metres 500-1500 square metres Docklands 1500-3000 square metres 3000+ square metres
Figure 7.11: West0-500 squareMelbourne metres has a range of site sizes that reflect patterns of use and development. These present500-1500 opportunities square metres for a range of different uses 1500-3000 square metres 3000+ square metres
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 49
Mixed use Mixed use Idea Sustainable neighbourhood #8 with adaptable buildings Help enable a sustainable neighbourhood with adaptable buildings to accommodate a range of uses over time. What is the idea?
This idea proposes precinct solutions and high standards of sustainable design and retrofit in new and existing buildings. These measures would enable greater flexibility and adaptability to support changing needs and help West Melbourne to be resilient to the challenges of a changing climate, economy and society.
Why is this idea proposed?
West Melbourne is being affected by a broad trend in Australia’s inner cities, as the economy transitions away from manufacturing to more diverse sectors focused on knowledge and services.
Some industrial, warehousing and logistics uses in West Melbourne have remained due to their proximity to the Port of Melbourne and central city, Figure 7.12: Many of West Melbourne’s buildings are no longer required for their original use and however as land values increase, there have the potential to be adapted for new uses. will be continued pressure to redevelop these sites for higher value uses.
River Studios, West Melbourne
River Studios is an initiative of Creative Spaces, a City Of Melbourne arts and culture program.
River Studios provides 62 studios, housing 80 artists, in a large warehouse on the edge of the Maribyrnong River in the industrial area of West Melbourne. The concrete shell of the warehouse is untouched, with inexpensive, temporary divisions inserted in a manner that allows them to be easily removed at the end of the 10- year lease.
This relatively low-cost conversion offers an affordable space for artists to work in close proximity to the city. The older building stock in West Melbourne offers opportunities for the adaptation of existing buildings to new uses that maintain the mix of uses in the neighbourhood.
Photo: Andrew Wuttke
50 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne While many of these buildings do not Solutions might include: These efforts to improve the have heritage value, retaining and sustainability of buildings will contribute adaptively reusing a mix of building • Utilising in-street works to enable to the ongoing resilience and success of types will support a continuing mix of connections to future non-potable developments in West Melbourne. relevant land uses. The varied type and water supply between neighbouring age of existing buildings can support a urban renewal areas. Better In the same way that West Melbourne’s greater mix of new uses by providing a availability of water is critical for existing buildings are now being diverse range of spaces. To effectively climate change adaptation measures adaptively reused, new buildings need support diverse uses, the entire building such as urban greening. to be designed in a way that enables envelope needs to be retained rather adaptation for different uses in the • Locating solar roofs strategically than just a façade which fails to relate future. An example of this is above throughout West Melbourne to to the interior envelope and use. A ground car parking, which should be maximise generation, and enable common example of adaptive reuse is designed with sufficient floor to ceiling future sharing. the conversion of warehouses to artist heights and flat floors to allow for future studios or open plan office spaces. • Investigating opportunities for adaptation (see the case study below). precinct approaches to waste The practice of adapting existing management, especially diverting New buildings in West Melbourne need buildings is an inherently sustainable organic waste from landfill. to be designed, and existing buildings process that reduces the embodied retrofitted, to the highest sustainability energy involved in construction and New and existing buildings make a standards. There is an opportunity for contributes to the social resilience critical contribution to the sustainability updated built form controls to manage of the neighbourhood though the performance of West Melbourne: a significant uptake in rooftop solar and retention of local character. other sustainable infrastructure across • Transitioning to zero carbon the area. buildings, including improved How could this idea work? passive design, energy efficiency as well as renewable energy On a precinct scale, the City of What could this mean for a new generation. Melbourne will seek opportunities to structure plan? work with utility and infrastructure • Cool roofs and green roofs improve providers to enable potential building comfort and reduce Urban • Investigate mechanisms to ensure future neighbourhood and precinct Heat Island Effect while rainwater building design is flexible to the infrastructure for climate change tanks assist in the management of changing needs of the community. adaptation, mitigation and building stormwater discharge and flooding • Promote exemplar design features in community capacity through shared while reducing potable water new buildings. neighbourhood approaches. consumption. • Identify opportunities to use built • Incorporating new technologies form controls to manage rooftop such as battery storage and smart solar access. grids to distribute locally generated renewable energy. • Encourage the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
QV8, Melbourne
The QV8 apartment development involved the adaptive reuse of an under used car park at the base of a thirty-seven storey tower within QV Melbourne. The apartments are open at 3 m both ends to allow for cross-ventilation. Photo: Breathe Architecture Ceiling heights of 2.55 metres in the original structure allowed for the A minimum ceiling height of adaptation, however there are some 3 metres for above ground internal amenity issues with a number car parking allows for future of bedrooms relying on borrowed light adaptation for different uses. and distinctly low ceiling heights. Car parks with a minimum ceiling height of 3 metres would allow greater flexibility for future adaptations. Photo: Peter Clarke
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 51 8. Strategy 1 Create Great Local Places Strategy 3 Improve Main Streets Transform Spencer Street into a high mobility street, increase the amenity of King and Dudley Streets while maintaining their role as key traffic routes and improve walking, cycling and public transport.
King Street, Spencer Street and Dudley Street are classified as the What did we hear during the first ‘main streets’ in West Melbourne. phase of community engagement? Dryburgh Street, Victoria Street, La Trobe Street, Curzon Street, The community indicated during ‘Extend tram along Spencer the first phase of engagement that Street’ Peel Street and Hawke Street also movement, transport and integrating form important parts of the West ‘More bike paths’ West Melbourne with surrounding Melbourne transport network. areas were high priorities for the ‘Pedestrian friendly - traffic structure plan. King Street, Spencer Street and Dudley reduction - easy access - noise reduction - safe’ Street currently all play equal roles Twenty per cent of comments in the street hierarchy. They are high shared were related to this topic. ‘To provide more connection volume arterial streets that are designed between Docklands/E-gate and to prioritise the movement of motor Individual comments from the West Melbourne’ vehicles ahead of other modes. community included:
Opposite page: Aerial view of West Melbourne looking south towards the Hoddle Grid. The curve of King Street and Spencer Street are visible in the foreground.
PARKVILLE STATION (PROPOSED) N
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tr W eet tr illiam S Train line eet 30 Tram (route number) HODDLE GRID 401 Bus (route number) tr eet Bicycle route Arterial streetCityLink DOCKLANDS West Melbourne study area
Figure 8.1: Existing transport network in West Melbourne including proposed Melbourne Metro Rail and Western Distributor projects.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 53 Existing Design and development overlays Location of two main pedestrian collision types 2010-2015 Location of Causalty accidents of bicyles 2011 - 2016 Source: Crashstats Existing Design and development overlays Location of two main pedestrian collision types 2010-2015 Location of Causalty accidents of bicyles 2011 - 2016 Source: Crashstats
VICTOR T IA T ST
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melbourne L market R E melbourne E station E E P station traffic in West Melbourne is through P S two access points at Dynon Road ST Y T LE ST UD Y D DLE traffic. Main streets are congested at Bridge and Dudley Street underpass W U D W VICT IL OR IL L T IA T ST I A L S I S A peak times and do not have capacity to Flagstaff M are unsafe and unpleasant for walking Flagstaff M VI S CT H H O RIA S GardensT T S S S Gardens T P E T G T P G T E E T carry more private vehicles. Inconsistent R E and cycling and are located 800 metres N S T E S R E S N R C 330mE R C T E E B E U S U O E R KR E K K R B K B T B S O speed limits in the area contribute to A I apart. While there are several priority S R W I L W T N T N Y T Y A G A G LA R Queen R Queen H H S S the high number of traffic incidents D D cyclingT routes, the network is generally T victoria T victoria E E T North North STR EE involving people walking and cycling. disconnected, especially in the centre of E S STR T OB P market E market TR E OB melbourne S melbourne LA N TR LA C Speed limits increase to 60 km/h upon L station station the area (see Figure 8.2). E E Serious R T E S T exiting the central city 40 km/h zone Y P MajorIntersection crossing S S LE T Y Other UD DLE (see Figure 8.5). D MinorLocationPedestrian crossing of pedestrian crossing crossings along main streets DU Speed limits Non-serious 40km/hr W Figure 8.3: Pedestrian crossings and distances 50km/hr IL Flagstaff Flagstaff L Location of two main pedestrian collision types 2010-2015 Location60km/hr of Causalty accidents of bicyles 2011 - 2016 Existing Design and development overlaysI between them. Distances between crossings on Street design A Issues Gardens70km/hr S Gardens M Source: Crashstats P main streets can be up to 400 m. The Walking Plan T E S
T S N (2014) recommends 100 m as a maximum between Most of the space in West Melbourne’s C H E G Location of Rtwo main pedestrian collision types 2010-2015 Location of Causalty accidents of bicyles 2011 - 2016 Existing Design and development overlays crossings to create a good walking environment. R
main streets is allocated to cars, and S U T Source: Crashstats B VIC Y T T the operation of traffic signals at ORIA ST R VICT S T ORIA D ST S T H intersections favours the flow of traffic E S G K T K E E R W 360m K RE IN T K on the main streets. There is generally T U A E W I S H GRE N BE B T Queen A G O S S H Queen Y E TR OB T S low pedestrian, bicycle and public A R R T L T T victoria A VICT T victoria D S OR North L T IA T S T S S North S North
V400mI L market transport priority and amenity, with long CT H H O melbourne RIA ST L market E G T G T melbourne S E S R R E station E E U E U K K P K station K B station distances between pedestrian crossings B I W I W N P N Y Y A G T A G R Queen R Queen H H S S S D D Y T T victoria T of up to 400 metres (see Figure 8.3). victoria LE S North VICTOR D North Y SeriousT IA S T S U T T P market S market LE S D E S melbourne melbourne N D VI W CT H C U H OR L Major crossing IA ST station station D W E G T E G T Other IL S R S R E R T S T E P S IL E U Y S U K K K LE L T Y K B Minor crossing B I D I LE W I W N U D L N Y Y Non-serious A D A U A G G D R Queen I R Queen H H S S Flagstaff M A D D T T Flagstaff victoria W victoria M S North North IL S T P S market Gardens T Flagstaff market E Flagstaff L S melbourne S melbourne S Gardens N I Gardens P C A T L station Gardens P station E S EGardens M E R P E T E N S S E T P S T Y N S N LE T Y C 330m D C LE U D C D E DU E R E T R S R W S T S
t IL T S H Flagstaff Flagstaff L e T I A G e S Gardens M Gardens
R P T r S E E E T T U R N T E t S E Dryburgh street E R C B T B O S E R E s T OB R A Y L TR abbotsford street t VI A C william street L T T S O l R curzon street e RI T V V A ST T E ICT S ic O t e E RI T T o e A ria s D TR ST E S r tree S E t e T R H t T Dryburgh street E BES S s P O E G K R B abbotsford street T E O william street curzon street l K R R T Vict W 360m EE LA K Serious T or e T K ia str IN STR EE A U eeA R L t e E Major crossing T W I H G OB E S N Other P B TR Queen Figure 8.4: Location ofOB most commonA pedestrianG S LA Minor crossing TR H Queen Y K T LA S Non-serious R T in T victoria collisions (2010-2015). Pedestrian collisions have T victoria
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i Queen North S S n p g S 400m L market melbourne S e t Queen occurred on main streets with a concentration on L market p n S r E melbourne e c t victoria Serious E E station n e r e victoria T c E e S er r e e Major crossing P KingstationOther Street near Flagstaff Gardens. P t t market market H NorthNorth St S Minor crossing ST G r t Y LocationNon-serious of pedestrian crossings along main streetsR Speed limits e r LE ST U Melbourne e e D Y B
t Y Melbourne e U VIC T T LE D ORIA ST R VICT station t W S T D ORIA U D 40km/hr ST S D T H W station IL E S G K Hawke K E R t T W 360m IL K e L IN K 50km/hr e U S A I W I H G N Street tr B Queen L A G Hawke s A H S H Queen Y T I S t G Flagstaff M R A T y Flagstaff e T victoria F R e Flagstaff 60km/hr T victoria o D l e North S Flagstaff o M U North S t s Streetud S 400m L market tr B c D Gardens melbourne L market r s E melbourne S Y melbourne T a GardensV S E ICT E y T O Issuesstation R R S Gardens 70km/hr E P IA S VIC Gardens r T T P station y S OR station T T IA F o e Flagstaff D ST P P o a E S T T d l H S o E S N Y E T t G s ud K E LE S K D N Y c R 360m K U D W r C 330mGardens IN K D DLE U A W a G W IN C U H D W y B E Queen A G IL S H Queen r Y E R T S L IL
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T EE T TR EE E S Location of pedestrian crossingsTR along main streets OB E S Speed limits TR OB LA TR LA 40km/hr Existing bike pathLocation of pedestrian crossings along main streets Speed limits 50km/hr 60km/hr Bike accidents 2011-2016 Issues40km/hr 70km/hr Location of pedestrian crossings along main streets Speed50km/hr limits 60km/hr40km/hr Figure 8.2: Existing bike routes and bike accidents (2011-2016) in West Melbourne. 50km/hr Issues Issues 70km/hr60km/hr Most bike accidents over the past five years occurred on La Trobe and Peel Streets. 70km/hr Separated bicycle lane were introduced in La Trobe Street in 2013. Peel Street is included Existing bike path Figure 8.5: 60 km/h speed limits on main streets as a Priority Corridor in the Bicycle Plan 2016-2020. There were also several accidents on make it more difficult for pedestrians and cyclists to SpencerBike and accidents King Streets 2011-2016 suggesting that these routes could be made safer for cyclists. move between different areas and reduce safety.
54 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne In order to meet the transport needs This could create opportunities for Why is this a good of West Melbourne into the future, Spencer Street to develop as a local strategy for West these main streets need to provide a centre (see Idea #1) and would help higher level of service for all modes mitigate the impacts of through traffic Melbourne? of transport. The City of Melbourne’s on the neighbourhood, foster local West Melbourne’s main streets provide Transport Strategy (2012) identifies street life and improve pedestrian, important connections to the wider Spencer Street and Dudley Street cycling and public transport transport network but have a significant as high mobility streets, with high connections to the surrounding areas. impact on the local environment due to frequency tram and priority bus services Ideas 9, 10, 11 and 12 on the following high volumes of traffic passing through and excellent pedestrian access to and pages suggest how this strategy to the area. The main streets act as the key around stops. improve main streets could be achieved entry points into the neighbourhood There is an opportunity to redefine and in West Melbourne. These ideas will be when arriving or passing through West strengthen the individual roles of West dependent on more detailed analysis Melbourne. They are poor amenity Melbourne’s main streets in the wider and understanding of the key issues and streets and act as barriers to movement transport network. A clear hierarchy ongoing involvement and partnerships for pedestrians, cyclists and local traffic. of main streets in West Melbourne with key project stakeholders, including As surrounding areas develop, it will could attribute particular roles to VicRoads (as the road authority for be critical to enhance connections individual streets, rather than all streets the main streets in West Melbourne), performing the same function as traffic Transport for Victoria (TfV),
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w a Ron barassi y Existing centre of activity New connections senior Park Proposed Western Distributor Figure 8.6: West Melbourne’s main streets o ramps
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 55 Existing centre of activity New connections Proposed Western Distributor o ramps
Proposed opportunity Proposed opportunity Idea Spencer Street as a high mobility street #9 Transform Spencer Street into a high mobility public transport, walking and cycling street.
What is the idea? Why is this idea proposed? How could this idea work?
This idea proposes to transform Spencer Street is currently an arterial There is a strategic basis for Spencer Street into a high mobility traffic route running through the strengthening Spencer Street’s role as street. Prioritising the street for walking, centre of West Melbourne that has a public transport corridor. A better cycling and public transport will help negative amenity impacts on the local public transport service on Spencer create a safer and attractive place that environment. Spencer Street carries Street could improve connections to is easier to get around and supports between around 22,000 and 37,000 Dynon Road, Arden, the proposed a mix of uses. Extending the tram vehicles day through West Melbourne, Dynon renewal precinct and Footscray line along Spencer Street would help connecting the areas to the north to the west. A proposed future tram unlock the potential for Spencer Street and west of West Melbourne with the corridor was identified in the City of to become the ‘high street’ of West Hoddle Grid and South Melbourne. Melbourne’s Transport Strategy (2012). Melbourne. Spencer Street currently plays a similar There are two existing bus routes that This idea is closely related to Idea #1 role in the road network to parallel King run along Spencer Street that could be to redesign Spencer Street as the new Street. Both streets are arterial traffic improved in the short term by reserving ‘high street’ of West Melbourne (see routes with poor cycling and public space in the centre of the street for page 32). transport access. The role of these two priority bus access. Reserving this space streets could be differentiated to better this would allow for the roll out of a complement one another, with public tram line to Footscray in the future. and active transport given greater priority on Spencer Street while King Spencer Street can provide an Street retains its important arterial important link in the expanded central traffic function. city bicycle network. Bike access on Spencer Street would connect existing routes on Dynon Road and Abbotsford Street to La Trobe Street. This could also become an increasingly important bicycle route for the future Arden precinct. Convenient walking and cycling access to local shops and
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w Existing centre of activity a Proposed Western Distributor y for walking by providing more street o ramps trees and high quality materials and furniture.
Figure 8.7: Spencer Street has the potential to become a high quality public transport, walking and cycling street through West Melbourne connecting the Hoddle Grid to the west.
56 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne
Spencer Street a Indicative sections of Spencer Street (North of La Trobe Street)
P P Footpath Footpath Figure 8.8: Spencer Street between Batman Parking Trac Trac Median Trac Trac Parking Street and Jeffcott Street and the heritage Sands & McDougall Building. 30 metres
Figure 8.11: Existing street section B
P P Footpath Footpath Parking Trac/ bike Tram Tram Trac/ bike Parking
30 metres Figure 8.9: Existing commercial buildings between Rosslyn Street and Stanley Street. Figure 8.12: Potential street section with tram
C Footpath Footpath Trac/ bike stop Tram Tram Tram stop Tram Trac/ bike
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Figure 8.10: Intersection of Spencer Street Figure 8.13: Potential street section at tram stop and Dudley Street looking north up Spencer Street.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 57 Idea Dudley Street #10 Improve walking, cycling and street trees along Dudley Street, including upgrading the Dudley Street underpass.
What is the idea? Dudley Street is the main street How could this idea work? between Docklands and the Queen This idea proposes to improve Dudley Victoria Market, two increasingly Opportunities for upgrading the Street as a tree-lined street connecting significant tourism and leisure underpass could include introducing Docklands and the Queen Victoria destinations. As these destinations ‘lane reversibility’, where traffic lanes Market. Dudley Street will continue become more popular into the future, cater to morning and afternoon peak to play an important role in the Dudley Street will need to better traffic flows. This would allow for the arterial road network while pedestrian accommodate a growing number of overall road space allocated to cars to access for residents and visitors will pedestrians. be reduced without affecting capacity be improved. Upgrading the railway significantly, while creating space for underpass would provide a safer link for Dudley Street poses several challenges, pedestrian and bicycle paths to be pedestrians and cyclists and incorporate including the topography of the street widened and enhanced. improved stormwater management. that drops over 20 metres from Peel Street to the railway underpass causing Over the past few years there has Why is this idea proposed? considerable flooding issues. been an intensification of residential development along Dudley Street. As Dudley Street is the major arterial The underpass is an unsafe and a result, the street will need to serve a east-west link through West Melbourne unpleasant environment for people greater variety of users other than just carrying between approximately 22,000 walking and cycling due to poor through traffic. and 32,000 daily between the west lighting, vehicle noise and exhaust and and the central city. It is a difficult very narrow shared paths. The impacts street for pedestrians to cross and is of the Western Distributor around this an unpleasant place to walk in some area need to be considered further.
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W Photography by Brett Boardman u r u n d j e Docklands r i
Design by lahznimmo architects w a with Spackman Mossop Michaels Ron barassi y Landscape Architects senior Park
Client - National Capital Authority
58 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne
Dudley Street As the residential population grows, What could this mean for a new a Dudley Street will be an important structure plan? connection to new and existing services and facilities in surrounding areas • Propose upgrading the Dudley including Ron Barassi Senior Park, Street underpass to improve Harbour Town, Library at The Dock, the pedestrian and cycling safety. proposed Docklands primary school and • Test suitability of ‘lane reversibility’ new public spaces, community services to cater to peak traffic flows. and fresh food market at Queen Victoria Market. • Propose safer pedestrian crossings and wider footpaths in some As referenced by the City of sections. Melbourne’s Urban Forest Strategy, there is an opportunity to increase • Propose improved cycling access planting and urban forest along Dudley west of Adderley Street. Street, improving the pedestrian • Investigate ways to improve safety environment and helping to mitigate the for crowds at Festival Hall. urban heat island effect. Figure 8.15: Dudley Street between Spencer • Expand the urban forest and tree Street and King Street has good tree canopy canopy along Dudley Street. cover and some heritage buildings. • Integrated engineering and landscape solution to better deal with water and make safer, higher B
quality pedestrian environment.
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w a Ron barassi y senior Park Figure 8.17: Looking west towards the Dudley Figure 8.14: Dudley Street provides an important connection between Docklands and Queen Street underpass from the Dudley Street Victoria Market. Different sections of the street present different opportunities for improvement. northern footpath outside Festival Hall.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 59
Dudley Street Idea King Street #11 Make King Street safer, easier and more pleasant for people to access and cross, while maintaining its important traffic function.
What is the idea? Why is this idea proposed? interface with the Flagstaff Gardens and a number of active uses including This idea proposes to maintain King King Street is an important arterial route cafes, Haileybury College and St James Street’s important traffic function, while that carries between approximately Old Cathedral. A pedestrian crossing making it safer for people. South of 25,000 to 40,000 vehicles daily through has recently been installed at Jeffcott Dudley Street, the street could reflect its West Melbourne between the Hoddle Street and the Hoddle Grid 40km/h changing role in the expanding central Grid and the north and west. Traffic speed limit has been extended to city and better integrate with Flagstaff volumes vary significantly along the Dudley Street. The Flagstaff Gardens Gardens. North of Dudley Street, King length of the street with the greatest interface also presents opportunities Street could be made safer and easier volume of around 50,000 vehicles near for improvement by introducing more to cross and more pleasant to walk and Flinders Street diminishing to around welcoming and accessible entrances, cycle along. 25,000 near Hawke Street (see Figure sitting ledges and an increased tree 8.20). canopy.
While this traffic function will be North of Dudley Street, access across maintained, the design of the street King Street to the Errol Street shops, currently creates an unsafe environment the Queen Victoria Market and Eades particularly for pedestrians. Each Park can be difficult and dangerous for section of King Street has different pedestrians. Wide traffic carriageways, issues and presents different inconsistent tree canopy and long opportunities for improving the safety distances between signalised pedestrian of the street for all road users. crossings of up to 350 metres (between Hawke Street and Rosslyn Street) Between La Trobe and Dudley Streets, make King Street a difficult barrier to
King Street is characterised by its pedestrian movement.
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Figure 8.18: King Street is an important traffic route in the transport network but can form a barrier to local movement.
60 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne
King Street How could this idea work? What could this mean for a new a structure plan? The introduction of a new pedestrian crossing between Rosslyn Street and • Investigate locations for new Hawke Street and the removal of central pedestrian crossings. median breaks to minimise vehicle turning movements would improve • Investigate the feasibility of safety for pedestrians crossing King providing safer bicycle access Street with minimal impact on the flow (north of La Trobe Street). of through traffic. • Consider options for making pedestrian access to Flagstaff While it is acknowledged that King Gardens more welcoming and easier Street does not currently support active for everyone. transport due to its traffic function, there could be opportunities to improve • Consider changes to the central bicycle safety and access north of median to minimise vehicle turning Dudley Street where traffic volumes movements, such as removing keep are significantly lower than within the clear zones. Figure 8.20: Entrance to Flagstaff Gardens Hoddle Grid. from the intersection of King Street and Jeffcott Street. Between Dudley Street and La Trobe Street, peak time clearways currently allow for three vehicle lanes in each direction. One option could B be to reallocate some of this space to bicycle lanes at peak times, as is done in Exhibition Street, to provide safer access for cyclists from North Melbourne and Kensington to the existing La Trobe Street bicycle route.
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Figure 8.19: 24 hour median midweek two-way traffic volumes by block in King Street. Figure 8.22: Wide traffic lanes and street trees Source: VicRoads 2016 Traffic Volume Data on King Street at Roden Street.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 61
VICROADS - 2016 traffic volume data Idea Surrounding Connections #12 Enable new and enhanced connections between Arden, West Melbourne, E-Gate and Docklands around North Melbourne Station.
What is the idea?
This idea proposes to enable new connections between Arden, West Melbourne, E-Gate and Docklands by providing new and upgraded footbridges to the west of North Melbourne Station. Improvements to infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists would ensure there are safe, attractive and sustainable opportunities to access the west.
Why is this idea proposed?
West Melbourne’s western boundary is defined by an extensive infrastructure corridor including railway lines, a cutting and E-Gate railyards. This barrier disconnects West Melbourne from Docklands for 800 metres between Dynon Road Bridge and Dudley Street underpass. These two existing connections provide very poor Figure 8.23: Looking south from North Melbourne Station across the railway yards. pedestrian and cycling access and amenity.
Luchtsingel ‘Air Canal’, Rotterdam
The Luchtsingel ‘Air Canal’ is a pedestrian footbridge in Rotterdam, The Netherlands that reconnects the Hofplein area with the northern districts by allowing pedestrians to bypass railway lines and heavily trafficked roads.
The Luchtsingel emerged out of the City of Rotterdam’s Central District Masterplan and was scheduled to be built in 30 years time. However, the crowdfunding scheme ‘I Make Rotterdam’ allowed the project to be brought forward with construction commencing as the first funds were received.
A similar lightweight footbridge could be used to connect create a high amenity connection from North Melbourne Station to the west.
Photo: Ossip van Duivenbode
62 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne This disconnection is an issue that will How could this idea work? What could this mean for a new become increasingly significant with structure plan? the development of Arden and E-Gate North Melbourne Station presents into the future. Compact inner city the most viable opportunity to realise • Recommend upgraded public areas function better with a high level an active transport connection due transport and cycling access on of connectivity. The success of West to its high elevation, making it the Dynon Road Bridge. Melbourne, Arden, Docklands and most suitable point for a cycling and • Propose a new pedestrian bridge E-Gate to function as compact walkable walking alignment across to E-Gate. to south end of North Melbourne neighbourhoods will be compromised New connections will be integrated Station to be staged with E-Gate while this barrier remains. The with plans for Arden and align with development. structure plan could propose potential proposed pedestrian and cycling routes connections across the railway lines. via Railway Place/Laurens Street and • Propose upgrading the pedestrian Dryburgh Street. bridge at north end of North Overcoming this physical barrier will Melbourne Station. be difficult due to the topography More than one connection is highly of Railway Place, particularly south desirable between Dynon Road Bridge • Investigate a new pedestrian and of Abbotsford Street, and the high and Dudley Street to fully realise cycling bridge at Hawke Street. clearance requirements of the Regional the potential for these inner west Rail Link overpass. neighbourhoods to be walkable places.
The impact of the Western Distributor Improved access to North Melbourne is not yet clear, although the City Station from the west will be a of Melbourne has reinforced the priority and connections will support importance of maintaining the potential pedestrians, cycling and public for future connections to E-Gate and transport. Creating new private Docklands. vehicle connections is not considered appropriate due to increased structural requirements, local amenity impacts and incompatibility with the vision for the area as a sustainable place for people.
Idea #3 proposes another potential
future connection at Hawke Street.
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Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 63
north melbourne station Appendix 1
Urban Design and The principles are: Local character Planning Principles 1. Local character Local character is the distinctive identity The structure plan for West Melbourne 2. Connectivity of a particular place should be guided by and enable good 3. Density that results from the urban design and planning principles to interaction of many help achieve the vision and create great 4. Mixed use factors, including built form, people, places. 5. Adaptability activity and history. West Melbourne has a number of distinct character The eight urban design principles 6. High quality public realm areas influenced by factors such as its listed are based on an extensive global outlook over the railway yards, heritage 7. Integrated decision making literature review establishing the fabric, wide radial streets and diverse economic, environmental and social 8. User participation architecture. Ideas for the future of benefits of urban design. the area will enhance these existing These principles are further explained qualities and ensure change occurs in a on the following pages, including how way that is respectful of the place and they relate to West Melbourne. its history. Urban design that supports and respects local character can reinforce a sense of identity among residents, offer score/fold people meaningful choices between CREATING different neighbourhoods and attract PLACES highly skilled workers and high-tech FOR PEOPLE business. AN URBAN DESIGN PROTOCOL FOR AUSTRALIAN CITIES
Connectivity
INFRA1219 November 2011 Connectivity is the physical conditions score/fold facilitating access and movement within a region, city, town New Zealand or neighbourhood. West Melbourne’s Urban Design Protocol location to the east of the old port (Docklands) and the railway yards has by design limited its connections to the west. Urban design in the planning system: towards better practice Several main roads run through the study area reflecting its industrial past and the continued prioritisation of cars over other forms of transport.
Well-connected neighbourhoods can encourage more walking and cycling, make local shops and facilities more viable and enhance people’s safety and Key reference documents that explain urban design security by encouraging surveillance. principles in more detail include: West Melbourne’s location enables • By Design - Urban design in the planning system: it to provide great opportunities for towards better practice, CABE (Commission for businesses to provide alternative Architecture and the Built Environment), UK services to economic activity in the • The Value of Urban Design (The economic, central city. environmental and social benefits of urban design), Ministry for the Environment, New Zealand • Creating Places for People, An Urban Design Protocol for Australian Cities, Australia
64 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne Density Adaptability Integrated decision making Density is the Adaptability is concentration of the capacity of Integrated decision population and urban buildings, making must occur activity in an neighbourhoods and between and within urban area. West spaces to adapt to organisations involved in urban policy Melbourne’s high level of accessibility changing needs. West Melbourne is planning and implementation, leading to makes it a sustainable location for the scattered with repurposed warehouses, the integration of different elements in concentration of population and activity. terraces, corner stores and garages the urban environment. West Melbourne There are currently approximately 5000 that have been given a new life. is affected by different decisions made people living in the neighbourhood and The adaption of buildings enables a in the private sector and across all levels 2800 dwellings in the pipeline indicating sustainable approach to enhancing local of government. At almost every border that population density will increase in character and heritage. of the neighbourhood there is major the near future. There are limited local change occurring that will influence services in the area but this is starting Urban design that addresses the neighbourhood – unprecedented to change as the neighbourhood grows. adaptability can extend the life central city growth, the urban renewal of buildings and public spaces, of Arden-Macaulay and City North, the Higher density development can (in increase the diversity of uses and Western Distributor project, Melbourne conjunction with other conditions, such users in a public space, encourage Metro and the renewal of the Queen as mixed use, good building design and the conservation of non-renewable Victoria Market. adequate open space) promote social resources and contribute to the connectedness and vitality, encourage long term economic success of a An integrated approach to decision- greater physical activity, reduce the neighbourhood. making can allow urban design to economic costs associated with time produce the greatest possible benefits spent travelling and help conserve open Adaptability is also important in the for the community. space. context of adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Mixed use High quality public User participation realm Mixed use is where User participation a variety of different The public realm is is the public living and working all the parts of the consultation process, activities are in close physical environment and other forms of proximity within a of neighbourhoods public involvement neighbourhood. West Melbourne has that the public has access to, and in projects such as surveys or design a long history of many different land that forms the setting for public life. workshops. The participation of uses, this is reflected in the auto repair West Melbourne’s wide sunny streets, community members in the planning for shops, large furniture retailers and narrow bluestone laneways, diverse West Melbourne is crucial to its success. small workers cottages. More recently, open spaces, varied topography and Local knowledge is fundamental knowledge intensive industries, private architecture provide the foundations for in understanding the history and education providers and commercial a high quality public realm. Currently, experiences of a neighbourhood. accommodation services have started to the majority of the public realm User participation can enhance the locate in the neighbourhood indicating remains dedicated to cars and there are significant opportunities for the sense of community, develop a greater a shift in the local economy. improvement of the public realm for sense of ownership over changes, ensure changes to the neighbourhoods Urban design that supports mixed use people. meets the needs of the community and neighbourhoods can (in conjunction encourage increased user support for with connectivity and a relatively high A high quality public realm can increase positive change. intensity of different uses) provide the use of public space and associated opportunities for people to establish businesses, enhance personal safety, and run businesses in their local attract more people and activities area, reduce household spending on and improve the sustainability of transport, increases the viability of local a neighbourhood. A good walking shops and facilities, offer people greater environment supports local businesses choices and opportunities and allow and helps people stay better connected parking and transport infrastructure to with each other. be used more efficiently.
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 65 The below table is taken from the Summary of The Value of Urban Design (The economic, environmental and social benefits of urban design), Ministry for the Environment, New Zealand.
This table summarises the principal findings from the extensive survey of writings and empirical studies of urban design discussed in this report. It focuses specifically on the elements of urban design about which there are ‘useful’Table findings. 1: Summary of Findings about the Key Asterisks are used to indicate the quality of the evidence surveyed: *** conclusive,**Urban strong, Design* suggestive. Elements Anecdotal findings have been excluded. This table summarises the principal findings from the extensive survey of writings and empirical studies of urban design discussed in this report. It focuses specifically on the elements of urban design about which there are ‘useful’ findings. Asterisks are used to indicate the quality of the evidence surveyed: *** conclusive, ** strong, * suggestive. Anecdotal findings have been excluded.
Economic Social/Cultural Environmental Value Findings Value Findings Value Findings
Local Character ■ Attracts highly skilled workers ■ Reinforces a sense of identity ■ Supports conservation of and new economy enterprises.* among the residents of non-renewable resources.* ■ Assists the promotion and a neighbourhood.* ‘branding’ of cities and regions.* ■ Encourages people to become ■ Contributes a competitive actively involved in managing edge by providing a ‘point of their neighbourhood.* difference’.* ■ Offers choice among a wide ■ Potentially adds a premium to range of distinct places and the value of housing.* experiences.*
Connectivity ■ Increases viability of local ■ Enhances natural surveillance ■ Reduces vehicle emissions service shops and facilities.** and security.*** through fewer non-work trips.** ■ Increases a site or area’s ■ Encourages walking and cycling, accessibility, thereby enhancing mainly for non-work trips, land value.** leading to health benefits.** ■ Shortens walking distances, encouraging people to walk.**
Density ■ Provides land savings.*** ■ Is difficult to disentangle from ■ Reinforces green space ■ Provides infrastructure and the benefits of mixed use and preservation if linked into energy savings.** other factors.** clustered form.*** ■ Reduces the economic cost of ■ Can contribute to social ■ Reduces run-off from vehicles time allocated to mobility.** cohesion.** to water.*** ■ Is associated with concentration ■ Tends to promote health ■ Reduces emissions to air of knowledge and innovative through encouraging greater and atmosphere.** activity in urban cores.* physical activity.** ■ May conflict with micro/local ■ Can be associated with lower green space needs.** crime and greater safety.* ■ Enhances vitality.*
66 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne
23 Economic Social/Cultural Environmental Value Findings Value Findings Value Findings
Mixed Use ■ Enhances value for those ■ Improves access to essential ■ Reduces car use for local trips preferring a mixed use facilities and activities.*** (but minor impact on commuting) neighbourhood.*** ■ Provides convenience.** and hence emissions.*** ■ Utilises parking and transport ■ Encourages walking and cycling, infrastructure more efficiently.*** leading to health benefits.** ■ Increases viability of local ■ Reduces the need to own a car.** service shops and facilities.** ■ Increases personal safety.** ■ Significantly lowers household ■ Can enhance social equity.* expenditure on transportation.**
Adaptability ■ Contributes to economic success ■ Increases diversity and duration ■ Supports conservation of over time.** of use for public space.*** non-renewable resources.* ■ Extends useful economic life by ■ Gives ability to resist functional delaying the loss of vitality obsolescence.** and functionality.*
High Quality ■ Attracts people and activity, ■ Higher participation in Public Realm leading to enhanced economic community and cultural performance.*** activities.*** ■ Public art contributes to ■ Increased use of public space.*** enhanced economic activity.** ■ Gives greater sense of personal safety.** ■ Attracts social engagement, pride and commitment to further achievements.** ■ Public art contributes to greater community engagement with public space.**
Integrated ■ Co-ordinates physical design ■ Encourages people to take Decision-making and policy in related areas to advantage of opportunities ensure benefits of good urban presented by good urban design are realised design.** or enhanced.** ■ Provides equity of opportunity for a range of people to benefit from good urban design.*
User Participation ■ Makes more effective use ■ Improves fit between design of resources.*** and user needs.*** ■ Offers process cost savings by ■ Develops user ownership encouraging user support for of positive change.** positive change.** ■ Enhances sense of community.** ■ Enhances sense of well-being.* ■ Legitimises user interests.* ■ Enhances democracy.*
Ideas For West Melbourne | A Discussion Paper to Inform a new structure plan 67
24 Appendix 2
It is an objective of the West Melbourne Docklands Design and Public Art Framework 2014-17 Structure Plan to translate City of Construction Standards 2013 Melbourne strategies, plans and policies Public Lighting Strategy 2013 into the West Melbourne context where Docklands Waterways Strategic possible. Plan 2009-2018 Queen Victoria Market Precinct The following strategies, plans and Renewal Master Plan 2015 policies can be accessed on the City of Food City – City of Melbourne Melbourne’s website at: Food Policy 2012 Reconciliation Action Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au Heritage Strategy 2013 Resilient Melbourne 2016 Aboriginal Heritage Action Plan 2015-18 Homes for People Housing Road Safety Plan 2013-17 Strategy 2014-18 Access Docklands 2013 Southbank Structure Plan 2010 Inner Melbourne Action Plan 2016 Active Melbourne Strategy 2016- Total Watermark- City as a 2021 International Student Strategy Catchment (update 2014) 2013-17 Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan Transport Strategy 2012 2012 Knowledge City Strategy 2014- 2018 Urban Ecology and Biodiversity Arts Strategy 2014-17 Strategy (Draft) Melbourne for All People 2014-17 Beyond the Safe City Strategy Urban Forest Strategy 2012-2032 2014-17 Melbourne Library Service Strategic Plan 2008-2018 Urban Forest Precinct Plan - North Bicycle Plan 2016-2020 and West Melbourne 2014 Melbourne Planning Scheme City North Structure Plan 2012 Walking Plan 2014-17 Melbourne Retail and Hospitality Climate Change Adaptation Strategy 2013-17 Waste and Resource Recovery Plan Strategy 2009 2015-18 Music Strategy 2014-17 Community Infrastructure Zero Net Emissions by 2020 and Development Framework 2014 Open Space Strategy 2012 2014 update
Docklands Community and Place Pathways - City of Melbourne Plan 2012 Homelessness Strategy 2014-17
Docklands Public Realm Plan 2012 Places for People 2015
68 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne melbourne.vic.gov.au