Approval kicks-off plans for waterfront development in Docklands

Development Victoria and the Australian Football League (AFL) are moving forward with exploring opportunities to transform the Docklands waterfront into a premier mixed-use destination.

Approval of the Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) for the key locations at 140 and 160 Harbour Esplanade is an exciting next step for the precinct.

Group Head Precincts Niall Cunningham said the approval opens opportunities to revitalise the Docklands’ waterfront and enhance Marvel Stadium as a sports and entertainment complex.

Niall said;

Home to Marvel Stadium, AFL House, and the Channel 7 broadcast centre, the locations are being considered for a range of developments, with potential to include housing, commercial, residential, and entertainment uses.

AFL Executive General Manager Infrastructure, Matthew Chun said the recently completed redevelopment of Marvel Stadium is already delivering the precinct with increased visitors across the various footy matches, international sporting events and concerts hosted this year.

Matthew said;

Future designs for new buildings at the sites will need to respond to the conditions of the PSA and are subject to a further statutory planning approval process before any construction can begin.

The Joint Venture partners can now commence planning that aligns with the PSA including delivery strategies which will consider future release of the sites to market.

As the authority responsible for the development of Docklands, Development Victoria purchased the leasehold to 160 Harbour Esplanade, currently occupied by the Channel 7 broadcast centre, in 2018. The AFL owns Marvel Stadium at 140 Harbour Esplanade.

Learn more about the Docklands urban renewal projects on the Docklands and Central Pier project pages.