Overall design merit Our proposal creates a new place that embodies the urbanity of Melbourne, with its quirks, character and heritage.It is designed around a new public space that traverses the site, connecting to a reinvigorated Yarra River promenade.
Our proposal includes: • A new Western Concourse, • Access from the Coathanger Bridge to the Concourse • New public spaces • The restoration and adaptive reuse of the Administration Building • The return of rail administration • New office space, a boutique hotel and destination retail • New event space with views of the Yarra • Reconstruction of the north bank • Realignment of William Street to improve traffic flow and create a forecourt for the Immigration Museum.
Transport function The transport function is improved by: • Greatly improved access into the Station • Providing un-ticketed access through the station • Improving the station’s addressby increasing permeability through the Administration Building • A new pedestrian tunnel running beneath all platforms, connecting them to the MMRT • An open, safe concourse, with clear visibility, sightlines and wayfinding.
Cultural heritage and iconic status Flinders Street Station is a Melbourne institution. The memory of its facade, of its clocks and activity lies deep within the psyche of the city. The scheme realises the original idea from 1900 of a grand station:
• Restoring the existing building • Ensuring the southern facade of the Administration Building is visible • Has a new galleria space on the concourse between the Administration Building and concourse • The Banana Alley Vaults are restored and become an active hotel lobby with bars, restaurants and cafes.
Urban design and precinct integration A Piazza crosses the site, linking the city to Southbank across Sandridge Bridge. Improved connections are created via stairs, ramps, escalators and lifts. A new amphitheatre and performance pontoon is located on the river in the middle of the site. Bikes and pedestrian pathways have been redefined along the river edge to create clear and safe separation. Circulation through the site is now public.
The tram stops on Swanston Street are relocated to improve connectivity to Federation Square. The combination of these two significant public spaces across the shared zone of Swanston Street establishes a new event/public space for the city.
