The first stage of works to transform the former General Motors Holden site in Victoria has commenced, marking a major milestone in the State Government’s Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct (FBIP) development.
Winslow Infrastructure Pty Ltd has been appointed to undertake the main works for Stage 1, which will deliver new roads, a public park as well as necessary infrastructure to accommodate for a world class advanced manufacturing, engineering and design precinct.
These works will also integrate with the University of Melbourne’s new School of Engineering and Design campus – opening next year – to better connect students with researchers and industry partners.
Stage 1 of the FBIP project will help establish an east-west connection across Fishermans Bend by linking Salmon Street and Todd Road, unlocking development-ready lots for industry investment.
In addition to the main works contractor, OneWifi was also appointed to roll out smart poles within the precinct. These poles are capable of boosting 5G, local wifi networks and deliver EV charging.
“We’re delivering a well-connected and carefully planned precinct at Fishermans Bend, with connections to road and new public spaces that will be incredibly important as development continues,” Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing said.
“The Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct will attract the world’s brightest minds in advanced manufacturing and engineering, and is part of the broader project which will deliver a vibrant and welcoming community for residents,” Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor said.
“The University of Melbourne is excited about the potential opportunities Fishermans Bend will bring to connect students and researchers with industry partners,” University of Melbourne Chief Operating Officer Katerina Kapobassis said.
The Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct will be home to approximately 80,000 residents and up to 80,000 workers by 2050.
The up-and-coming precinct is part of the broader Fishermans Bend urban renewal project that is set to become a key hub for thousands of residents, workers and students right on the doorstep of Melbourne’s CBD.
Fishermans Bend spans about 480 hectares across the City of Melbourne and the City of Port Phillip, providing a connection between Melbourne’s CBD and Port Phillip Bay.
The Victorian Government has committed $179.4 million to kickstart the development of the FBIP.
Last year, the State Government has also endorsed a preferred route for a possible future rail tunnel through Fishermans Bend and Docklands to provide certainty to landowners that a new transport connection will be developed in the future.
Planning is now underway for a future tram connection and about 1,500 additional bus services per week have been added to the Fishermans Bend public transport network since 2022.
Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Development Victoria; Infrastructure Magazine
