Melbourne’s St Kilda Pier opens following $53 million redevelopment
The major $53 million redevelopment of Melbourne’s St Kilda Pier is complete with the pier now open for summer. The redeveloped pier, which is one the largest pier upgrades in Victoria’s history is anticipated to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
JCB, Site Office Landscape Architects and AW Maritime delivered the new St Kilda Pier which was developed through extensive collaboration with Parks Victoria, numerous stakeholders and specialist consultants.
The new 450-metre-long pier offers a safer and more accessible space for families and tourists, with sweeping views of the city skyline and the bay.
It’s expected to draw in more than 830,000 visitors each year, making it one of Melbourne’s top waterfront attractions.
The new design boasts a spectacular curved walkway, tiered seating, additional toilets, and a new community space near the iconic St Kilda Pier Kiosk.
A new low landing at the foreshore will also make it easier than ever for ferry and tour operators to welcome passengers to this popular destination.
More than 240 steel piles and 500 concrete segments weighing-in at 6,000 tonnes have strengthened the pier, supporting the 8,800-timber deck-boards and 65,000 screws used to cover the boardwalk.
The pier’s modern and durable design respectfully considers the heritage aspects of the existing pier, including the famous St Kilda Pier Kiosk which will soon welcome a new operator.
Materials were carefully considered for purpose and longevity, while integrating with the heritage elements. Timber offers warmth and comfort for sitting and reclining while concrete enables a more tactile experience for climbing.
The new pier will help reduce the impacts of climate change over the next 50 years. It imperceptibly rises in height as you travel its length, making it more resilient to rising sea levels, while the wave wall is designed to respond to wave and climate change modelling and seeks to protect visitors.
Local State Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor noted “St Kilda Pier is already one of Melbourne’s most treasured landmarks, and this redevelopment will make it even more special for the hundreds of thousands of Victorians and tourists who flock here each year.”
The Victorian Government is investing $46 million in critical pier rebuilds and repairs across the state. Victoria’s local ports and piers contribute more than $900 million a year to local and regional economies through tourism, marine activities, and industries.
Images. Credit: Jacinta Allan facebook
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