Five new buildings designed by five different architects forms part of the master plan just released by MAB Corporation and Melbourne architects DKO for 'NewQuay Central' in Docklands.

The plan proposes the redevelopment of ING Waterfront City land between Docklands Drive and NewQuay Promenade on Victoria Harbour which adjoins MAB's existing NewQuay precinct. MAB recently purchased the sites from ING in an off-market transaction.

The project will include up to 90,000 square metres of development in 5 new buildings that will be delivered over the next four years.

Each building will be designed by a different architectural firm.

The developers issued a statement which says the scheme will revitalise the existing retail, community and public realm by creating a major public park, residential buildings and an international hotel. The completed development will add up to 2000 new residents, hotel guests and workers to the precinct.

They say the park will be one of the largest green open spaces in Docklands and is designed in the tradition of Melbourne's beloved inner-city gardens. It will include a new pavilion that delivers food and beverages in the style of Brunetti in Melbourne's City Square.

A landmark hotel will occupy a prominent waterfront site on the NewQuay Promenade with spectacular views across Victoria Harbour to the City. The hotel to provide an elegant backdrop to the public park and shelter the park from south easterly winds.

MAB announced that discussions with an international hotel operator are well advanced.

The infill development in NewQuay Central will reinforce vital connections between the east and west parcels of NewQuay, as well as north into Harbour Town.

MAB believes that the aspirations prescribed in VicUrban's Second Decade of Docklands strategy are embodied within this scheme. And that the scheme addresses some consistent challenges faced in Docklands including the need for more green space, better protection from the elements through sheltered spaces and a greater variety of high quality building types.

MAB has submitted a new Master Plan to VicUrban and the Department of Planning and Community Development. MAB will conduct community information sessions commencing in September 2011.

NewQuay Central could commence construction as early as 2012.

Meanwhile, Docklands Community Association president Roger Gardner told the Age that residents were concerned the development would leave them with less open space - Docklands currently has only one park.

Images via the Herald Sun

David Wheeldon

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