‘Living in a development site': Concerns over high-rise that would loom over Queen Victoria Market
A towering 67-storey development could soon loom over Melbourne's historic Queen Victoria Market precinct as developers await approval from the planning minister.
The proposal led by Malaysian-based developer Sime Darby Property with architectural plans from COX Architects, is earmarked for 380-400 Queen Street, where a seven-storey carpark and TMG College Australia currently reside.
If approved, the 220-metre skyscraper is set to reshape the city's northwestern CBD skyline.
The mixed-use design proposal includes 33 levels of residential apartments, 20 levels of student accommodation, seven office floors, two retail levels, and four basement levels. A rooftop lounge and mezzanine will top it off.
The plans promise to revitalise the street level with new open-air laneways, a central pedestrian arcade, and a 'pocket park' nestled between Queen and A'Beckett streets, however current residents in the area have raised concerns about its proximity to the market.
The project also includes a retail hub blending food, beverage, and shopping along the laneways.
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The plans for the site, roughly 350 metres from the Queen Victoria Market, have been called in by planning minister Sonya Kilkenny.
According to documents lodged with Kilkenny, the City of Melbourne raised concerns last year over the tower's potential impact on surrounding heritage sites – including the Nonda Katsalidis designed apartment building Melbourne Terrace and the A'Beckett Street corridor – as well as its proximity to the market precinct.
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