New Era For Historic Footscray Wharf

VIC Premier

New life has been breathed into the historic Footscray Wharf improving the connection for the local community to the Maribyrnong River.

The upgrade includes a new 230-metre-long timber boardwalk as its centrepiece, with a fixed lower landing and floating pontoon to provide access to the water.

There is also a new wider pedestrian promenade connecting to the Maribyrnong River Trail, seating spaces, sheltered picnic and barbecue areas, more tree planting and new lighting.

Built in the 1880’s, the wharf serviced the factories lining the riverfront and was also used for unloading general cargo until the 1960’s and 70’s, and for small shipbuilders and pleasure craft until the early 1980’s. The historical rail spur line, installed parallel to the river and the tracks in 1917, has been retained and incorporated.

The Andrews Labor Government and Maribyrnong City Council have joint funded this $12 million project.

In addition to the revitalisation of the Footscray Wharf area, the West Gate Tunnel Project will also deliver a new landscaped recreation space south of Shepherd Bridge including bike paths connecting to new wetlands and open space near the tunnel entry and exit at Whitehall Street.

When complete in 2025, the West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne’s west – delivering an alternative to the West Gate Bridge, providing a much needed second river crossing, and removing more than 9000 trucks from residential streets.

The Footscray Wharf starts at the recently refurbished Henderson House Landing and extends south towards Shepherds Bridge with the wharf and promenade constructed between Hopkins Street and Footscray Road.

It comes as progress continues on the West Gate Tunnel where 1.3km of tunnel has been completed and works are progressing well on the West Gate Freeway with a traffic switch commencing on Friday June 24.

There will be changes to the way drivers access Millers Road while traveling outbound on the West Gate Freeway. They’ll need to decide on the West Gate Bridge whether they want to exit at Millers Road and move to the left lanes. Drivers who want to access Millers Road and Williamstown Road, must stay in the two left lanes.

Drivers should avoid making last minute changes if they are in the wrong lane – they can also get to Millers Road by exiting at Grieve Parade. All four lanes join after Millers Road, so if drivers are heading toward Grieve Parade, the M80 Ring Road and Princes Freeway, they can stay in their lane.

The West Gate Tunnel is part of the Labor Government’s pipeline of road and rail investments in Melbourne’s west – whether it’s the Metro Tunnel, suburban road maintenance, level crossing removals or Airport Rail, these projects will get locals where they need to go safer and sooner.

For more information about Footscray Wharf or the upcoming traffic change visit www.bigbuild.vic.gov.auExternal Link.

As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan

“The West Gate Tunnel Project is bringing some big changes for Melbourne’s west – not just in terms of travel, but also new open spaces for the community to enjoy.”

As works continue on the West Gate Freeway, drivers will need to make an important traffic switch next Friday 24 June. We encourage drivers to follow the signs and avoid last minute changes whilst travelling, to keep safe.”

As stated by Member for Footscray Katie Hall

“Footscray Wharf has been an important precinct in Melbourne’s west for many years, and it’s wonderful to see it start a new era.”

“Locals and visitors can now make the most of the area, whether going for a stroll, enjoying a picnic, or making the most of better access to the Maribyrnong River.”

As stated by Mayor of Maribyrnong City Council Cr Anthony Tran

“Footscray Wharf, and surrounding area, played a key role in the development of the colony of Port Phillip, Melbourne and the City of Maribyrnong. “

“It is exciting to see this heritage icon, which was a significant factor in the industrial development of the West, now repurposed for the ongoing benefit and enjoyment of the wider community.”

/Public Release. View in full here.