HISTORIC FOOTSCRAY WHARF WATERFRONT WORKS HAVE COMMENCED

Work has started on the historic Footscray Wharf to revitalise the heritage precinct, bringing life to the waterfront and better connecting the community to the Maribyrnong River.

At the centre of the upgrade is a new 230-metre-long timber boardwalk and wharf, with a fixed lower landing and a floating pontoon. The redevelopment will give the community improved access to the Maribyrnong River beyond its bank, as well as delivering mooring capabilities for small to medium vessels.

The upgrades also include a new wider pedestrian promenade connected to the Maribyrnong River trail, seating spaces, and sheltered picnic and barbecue areas allowing groups to gather and enjoy the beautiful riverfront together.

Landscaping improvements will consist of tree planting, lighting, and work to stabilise and protect the embankment of the river. The historical rail spur line will be retained and incorporated into the landscape.

Park areas and paths will have minimal disruptions during the construction period with sections of the Maribyrnong River Trail to be closed for short periods of time. Detours will be in place with all efforts made to minimise inconvenience to park and trail users.

In addition to the revitalisation of the Footscray Wharf area, the West Gate Tunnel Project will also deliver a new landscaped recreation space south of Shepherd Bridge which includes bike paths connecting to new wetlands and open space near the tunnel entry and exit at Whitehall Street.

Improvements to the Footscray Wharf precinct were identified in the Footscray River Edge Masterplan in 2014, following extensive community consultation.

The $12 million project is joint funded by the West Gate Tunnel Project and Maribyrnong City Council.

Construction on the Footscray Wharf redevelopment is anticipated to be completed for community use by mid-2022.

Quotes attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall

“It’s wonderful to see the iconic, historic and beautiful Footscray Wharf waterfront revitalised, giving residents and visitors alike complete access to the Maribyrnong River and the waterfront.”

“The West Gate Tunnel Project is more than just a new road. It’s a chance to transform the west with 9000 fewer trucks on local roads and opening up unused industrial land and turning it into new open space.”

Quotes attributable to CEO Maribyrnong City Council Stephen Wall

“We are pleased to see this long-awaited project get underway. A stroll along the Maribyrnong River is already a favourite past-time for residents and visitors to the city. These enhancements following the redevelopment of the riverside promise to make it the jewel of the inner west.”