Lendlease has secured final heritage approval for its Gurrowa Place development, delivered in partnership with the City of Melbourne and Scape, which will see a vibrant mixed-use precinct delivered at the southern edge of the Queen Victoria Market (QVM) in Melbourne.

The approval by the Federal Government is in addition to relevant state planning and heritage approvals, and supports the delivery of new, well-located homes, student housing, public open space, and complementary retail alongside the restoration of the Franklin Street stores.

Set across a 3.2-hectare site adjacent to the QVM, bordered by Franklin, Queen and Peel streets, Gurrowa Place will deliver c.1,150 student residences by Scape, and c.622 build-to-rent apartments with c.79 affordable homes, across two residential buildings.

As part of the federal heritage approval, Lendlease has proposed an amendment to the third building included in the project's approved masterplan to deliver an additional c.507 build-to-rent apartments and c.55 affordable homes.

In total, this could see more than 2,200 new build-to-rent apartments and student accommodation beds delivered, including more than 130 affordable homes, located close to public transport connections and Melbourne's medical, education and research precincts.

Gurrowa Place will also include a 1.8-hectare public park known as Market Square designed by the City of Melbourne in collaboration with Lendlease, and the heritage restoration of the Franklin Street stores, which will enhance the market experience to attract more customers and boost business for traders.

A 220-space basement car park will also be delivered for visitors and traders.

Site works are expected to commence next year.

Quotes attributed to Adam Williams, Executive Director Development, Lendlease:

“Gurrowa Place is one of the most exciting urban regeneration opportunities in Melbourne, set to deliver high-quality and diverse new homes on the doorstep of the beloved Queen Victoria Market.

“A new 1.8ha park, new basement parking for visitors and traders, and the restoration and conversion of the Franklin Street stores will support the market's broader renewal program, helping to secure the market's future while also maintaining and celebrating its rich history.” 

Quotes attributed to Nicholas Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne:

“Lendlease and the City of Melbourne can now confidently move forward with groundbreaking plans to transform the precinct – attracting thousands of new residents, workers and visitors, while boosting business for traders.”

“This development will also make a major dent in the housing crisis – delivering new homes, including affordable housing which the city desperately needs.”

“This is the biggest mixed-use development project in Council's history.”