The GPT Group has marked a construction milestone on its $170 million redevelopment of Melbourne Central, with demolition of the centre’s former rooftop now complete and works progressing across Levels 3 and 4. On 12 October, City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece joined GPT and project partners at the centre’s rooftop for a ceremonial wall demolition, offering a first look at the scale of construction taking shape across the CBD destination.

Designed by ARM Architecture and delivered by Maben Group, the project will add approximately 7,800sqm of new retail, dining and entertainment space. Upon completion in 2028, Melbourne Central will expand to approximately 63,000sqm, serving more than 55 million visitors per year.

Elevated dining precinct overlooking the CBD

The new Levels 3 and 4 will introduce premium dining zones positioned behind expansive glass overlooking La Trobe Street, creating a direct visual connection to Melbourne’s CBD streetscape. A large-format entertainment hub and new food retailers will complement the dining offer, with the precinct configured as an 18/7 extended trading hours destination, operating well beyond conventional retail.

The tenancy program includes Melbourne’s first flagship Books Kinokuniya store, alongside entertainment and dining operators, with the offer designed to draw workers, students, residents and visitors throughout the day and into the evening.

Melbourne Central spans two city blocks between Lonsdale and La Trobe Streets, with more than 300 retailers across five levels. The centre sits within one of Melbourne’s most concentrated precincts for retail, entertainment, education and transport.

Melbourne Central mezzanine bar and retail levels render, ARM Architecture

Delivering within a live centre

Constructing 7,800sqm of new space across two levels of a fully operational CBD destination introduces considerable logistical complexity. Maben Group is coordinating works to ensure the centre trades normally throughout the build.

“Moving into the next phase of work is an exciting milestone for everyone involved as the vision of Melbourne Central’s next chapter becomes increasingly visible. Delivering a project of this scale within a fully operational CBD destination takes careful coordination and planning, and our focus remains on delivering GPT’s vision while ensuring Melbourne Central continues to operate seamlessly for its customers, retailers and visitors throughout construction,” says Craig Gathercole, Director, Maben Group.

Melbourne Central entertainment atrium with escalators and ring lights, ARM Architecture

CBD investment and night-time economy

“Melbourne Central has always evolved alongside the city around it, and this transformation is about building on that legacy in a meaningful way. The precinct we’re delivering will be just as relevant at 9pm as it is at lunchtime — a destination where people can meet, discover, dine, shop and be entertained,” says Chris Barnett, Head of Retail, The GPT Group.

“The demand we’re seeing from leading retailers and hospitality operators for space in this development reflects the same conviction we have in Melbourne’s CBD. Experience-led destinations in well-connected city locations continue to attract genuine, long-term commitment from the best brands in the market. Our $170 million investment reflects our confidence not only in Melbourne Central, but in the enduring appeal of Melbourne’s CBD,” he adds.

Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece says the scale of private investment signals continued confidence in the city’s future.

“Melbourne is a city that never stands still, and investments of this scale help ensure our CBD continues to evolve with new experiences for residents, workers and visitors. Melbourne Central sits at the intersection of so much of what makes our city special, including retail, hospitality, entertainment, education and public transport. This redevelopment adds another meaningful dimension to that experience,” says Reece.

“A thriving night-time economy is an important part of a vibrant, globally competitive city. Creating more reasons for people to come in, stay longer and enjoy everything the CBD has to offer is good for surrounding businesses, good for our city and good for Melbourne’s future,” he adds.

The $170 million redevelopment, designed by ARM Architecture and built by Maben Group, is scheduled for completion in 2028.

Images: Supplied

Architecture & Design Team

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