Breaking Ground: Work Has Finally Begun on Melbourne's Greenline Project Along the Yarra River's North Bank

Melbourne's ambitious Greenline Project on the northern bank of the Yarra River is one step closer to reality, as construction has now officially started on the Birrarung Marr stage of the redevelopment. The transformation was first announced in 2021, and detailed plans were released throughout the following years. But it's finally getting done.

The Greenline Project will see the riverside precinct stretching from Birrarung Marr to the Bolte Bridge reimagined as one of the city's largest networks of green spaces, complete with a six-metre-wide and four-kilometre-long waterfront promenade.

This walkway will connect five waterside precincts — Birrarung Marr, The Falls, River Park, Maritime and Saltwater Wharf — each of which will receive its own makeover.

They'll feature a collection of promenades, parks, cultural activations and open space, with plans for environmental renewal projects to be incorporated and lots of native plants added, too.

Currently, construction has only started on the Birrarung Marr Precinct. This will include a new and improved riverside promenade with terraced steps for lounging by the water, and performance spaces that will host cultural events throughout the year.

A wetland habitat, a new park and a collection of rooftop venues above the Banana Alley Vaults have also been proposed for the Falls Precinct, while the River Park Precinct would include a new space for activities constructed beneath the Flinders Street viaduct.

The Maritime Precinct looks set to feature new maritime-inspired artworks and improved boat access, and at the Saltwater Wharf Precinct, you can look forward to an expanded promenade and another brand-new park.

"The Greenline Project will transform the underutilised north bank of the Yarra River to enhance Melbourne's world-renowned liveability, and will ensure Melbourne remains a beacon for global visitors and investment," explained Lord Mayor Sally Capp.

For now, construction has only begun on the Birrarung Marr Precinct, which is slated to be completed by the end of 2024. Work on the other four precincts and connecting walkways will commence at a later date.

You can find more details on the Greenline Project over on the City of Melbourne website or at the Greenline Project Hub at Federation Square — which is set to open in the coming months.