- Minister for Ports and Freight
The Andrews Labor Government will completely rebuild St Kilda Pier and deliver new separated bike lanes to boost safety for cyclists and pedestrians along St Kilda Road.
The Victorian Budget 2019/2020 will invest $50.3 million to deliver a rebuilt St Kilda pier, boosting tourism, adding more green space and preserving the iconic landmark for generations to come.
The rebuilt pier will curve out into the bay with a penguin viewing area and tiered seating providing access to the water, as well as new toilets, and sheltered areas. The curved breakwater will also provide a better protected swimming area, perfect for families with young kids who want to enjoy a day out at Melbourne’s city beach.
The design will also protect the St Kilda penguin colony while providing locals and tourists with a better place to watch the little penguins when they waddle back to the rock homes after sunset.
The current pier currently hosting more than 6,000 visitors a day in peak season, but is almost 50 years old and is reaching the end of its life. The new design for the pier was selected after extensive community consultation, with construction set to commence in 2020.
The Labor Government is also delivering on its election commitment to fix St Kilda Road and make it safe for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians with $27 million to build new bike lanes that separate cyclists from trams and traffic.
A combination of central safety zone bike lanes and Copenhagen-style kerbside bike lanes will be built to increase the number of cyclists along St Kilda Road, delivering relief to the transport network especially during peak times.
The central safety zone will provide a separated lane for cyclists in the middle of St Kilda Road, while the outer lanes will be reserved for vehicles and parking during off peak times. The Copenhagen-style kerbside bike lanes will be closer to the kerb with a physical barrier separating cyclists from parked cars and the road.
As stated by Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
“St Kilda Pier is a popular spot for visitors during summer and special place for locals year-round. We’re delivering on our promise to preserving and improving it for generations to come.”
“This upgrade will give the community more-green space, safer swimming spots, and protect the local penguins.”
As stated by the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Jaala Pulford
“St Kilda Road is Melbourne’s busiest tram route and one of Melbourne’s busiest bike routes – that’s why these safety upgrades are so vital to separate cyclists from other traffic.”
“We’ve carefully planned this new upgrade with all road users in mind – safely separating bikes and traffic for good while having the least impact on travel times for drivers.”
As stated by Member for Albert Park Martin Foley
“We’re protecting the pier for visitors and locals and doing the work to deliver better bike lanes on St Kilda Road for a safer journey to and from the city.”
