The state government should chip in the $12.5 million needed to revitalise the Maribyrnong River to offset the impact of the proposed West Gate Tunnel Project, according to Maribyrnong council.
A progress report on the Footscray River Edge Master Plan, to be considered at last night’s council meeting, noted the $5.5 billion tollway project would have a negative impact on the river foreshore.
The river plan was adopted in 2014 in a bid to revitalise the waterfront, including the development of a major wharf and promenade for the section between Hopkins Street and Footscray Road.
The plan includes a timber wharf and boardwalk with public moorings for small to medium vessels, an avenue of palm trees, new heritage interpretation features, improved lighting and gathering spaces with seating, picnic facilities and shelters.
The progress report recommends council extending the plan south to connect with the Yarraville Gardens and pushing the state government to provide $12.5 million in financial support “due to the impacts of the West Gate Tunnel project”.
Star Weekly earlier this year reported that the council’s response to the tollway’s Environment Effects Statement highlighted “the detrimental visual and amenity impacts” the project would have on the Footscray Wharf area.
The Planning Institute of Australia’s response was also critical of the “large new bridge structures” crossing the Maribyrnong River and the tollway’s impact on the riverside.
