-- Lord Mayor joins GPT and project partners to celebrate progression of works
Melbourne Central, one of Australia’s most recognisable shopping centres, has officially marked the expansion and redevelopment of levels 3 and 4, set to transform the iconic CBD destination into a major new dining, entertainment precinct, active well beyond traditional retail hours.
City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece today joined The GPT Group (GPT) and project partners to celebrate a turning point in Melbourne Central’s $170 million transformation – offering a first look at the scale of works now taking shape across the landmark destination’s upper levels. Against the backdrop of Melbourne’s CBD skyline, the occasion was marked with a ceremonial wall demolition on Melbourne Central’s rooftop.
With demolition of the former rooftop area now complete, works will progress to deliver approximately 7,800sqm of new retail, dining and entertainment space across Levels 3 and 4, set to become an 18/7 extended trading hour destination.
The expanded Centre will introduce Melbourne’s first flagship Books Kinokuniya store, a large-format entertainment hub, and new premium dining zones positioned behind expansive glass overlooking La Trobe Street - creating an elevated experience in one of the CBD’s busiest precincts.
For Melbourne, the project represents a significant private investment in the continued evolution of the CBD and its night-time economy, creating more reasons for workers, students, residents and visitors to spend time in the city .
Upon completion in 2028, Melbourne Central will expand to approximately 63,000sqm, delivering a substantially enhanced offering for the more than 55 million visitors who pass through its doors each year.
Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said the milestone demonstrated continued confidence in Melbourne and the future of its CBD.
“Melbourne is a city that never stands still, and investments of this scale help ensure our CBD continues to evolve with new experiences for residents, workers and visitors.
“Melbourne Central sits at the intersection of so much of what makes our city special, including retail, hospitality, entertainment, education and public transport. This redevelopment adds another meaningful dimension to that experience.
“A thriving night-time economy is an important part of a vibrant, globally competitive city. Creating more reasons for people to come in, stay longer and enjoy everything the CBD has to offer is good for surrounding businesses, good for our city and good for Melbourne’s future.”
Chris Barnett, Head of Retail at The GPT Group, said the milestone was about celebrating the point at which the vision for Melbourne Central’s next chapter was becoming a physical reality.
“Melbourne Central has always evolved alongside the city around it, and this transformation is about building on that legacy in a meaningful way. The precinct we're delivering will be just as relevant at 9pm as it is at lunchtime – a destination where people can meet, discover, dine, shop and be entertained.
"The demand we're seeing from leading retailers and hospitality operators for space in this development reflects the same conviction we have in Melbourne's CBD. Experience-led destinations in well-connected city locations continue to attract genuine, long-term commitment from the best brands in the market.
“Our $170 million investment reflects our confidence not only in Melbourne Central, but in the enduring appeal of Melbourne’s CBD. We’re excited to be delivering something that will contribute to the energy of the city and support its continued growth well into the future.”
GPT is partnering with Maben Group and ARM Architecture to deliver the redevelopment.
Craig Gathercole, Director of Maben Group, said the commencement of construction marked an important step in delivering a complex redevelopment within one of Melbourne’s busiest destinations.
“Moving into the next phase of work is an exciting milestone for everyone involved as the vision of Melbourne Central’s next chapter becomes increasingly visible.
“Delivering a project of this scale within a fully operational CBD destination takes careful coordination and planning, and our focus remains on delivering GPT’s vision while ensuring Melbourne Central continues to operate seamlessly for its customers, retailers and visitors throughout construction.”
Spanning two city blocks between Lonsdale and La Trobe Streets, Melbourne Central is home to more than 300 retailers across five levels and sits within one of Melbourne’s most concentrated retail, entertainment, education and transport precincts.
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For further media enquiries, please contact:
Kate Hayhoe
External Communications Manager
M + 61 414 892 579
[email protected]
Release ID: 89207522
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