Plans for Birrarung Marr boardwalk revealed in first big Greenline step

The river edge at Birrarung Marr will be transformed by new greenery and a 450-metre boardwalk in what is the City of Melbourne’s first big step in the $300m ‘city-shaping’ Greenline project.

On Friday the council released draft plans for the new path at Birrarung Marr, which represents the start of the 4km trail.

The plans looked to celebrate the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung connection to country, including indigenous flora and fauna and an opportunity for shared storytelling of place.

A prominent location for a number of key Melbourne events — including the Australian Open, Moomba, the Night Noodle Market — the Birrarung Marr upgrades will enhance the experience of both visitors and Melburnians on the river’s edge, according to the City of Melbourne.

Captions: Before (above) and after (below). 

Works were expected to commence by mid-2023.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the plans were an exciting early step.

“The Greenline Project will transform, revitalise and reimagine the north bank of the Yarra River – with a new boardwalk, paths and lush greenery along Birrarung Marr,” she said.

“Whether you’ve enjoyed a walk to the footy, a scenic spot for a picnic or catching a great event, Birrarung Marr holds a special place for every Melburnian.”

Inspired by New York’s High Line trail and a key election pledge of Cr Capp, Greenline would see a pathway established along the river’s north bank from Birrarung Marr all the way to the Bolte Bridge.

The path would represent Melbourne’s “biggest transformation” since the opening of Federation Square in 2002, according to the Lord Mayor.
The council hoped to finish the entire 4km trail by 2028.

It has divided Greenline into five specific ‘precincts’ on the river’s north bank, with Birrarung Marr the easternmost position.
From there (east to west), the precincts are: The Falls (previously ‘Yarro Yarro’ in earlier plans), River Park, Maritime and Salt Water Wharf.

Melburnians are encouraged to have their say on the draft plans for Birrarung Marr. Community consultation begins on Tuesday August 2 and will remain open for six weeks.

“Our plans are bold and will create new opportunities for everyone to engage with the river and its profound history, while attracting more visitors to the area. Now we want to hear what the community has to say on the future of this special site,” Cr Capp said.

Visit participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/greenline to have your say.