86 Tram Extension Down Docklands Drive

VicUrban and key Melbourne Docklands developers today welcomed the State Government's decision to extend Tram 86 into Docklands Drive.

The decision means the service, which currently travels down Bourke Street, Spencer and LaTrobe Streets and stops at Harbour Esplanade, will continue along the waterfront to Docklands Drive through the New Quay and Waterfront City precincts.

As the authority responsible for ensuring Docklands develops into a sustainable, mixed-use community, VicUrban teamed with the private sector to achieve this service extension.

Developers ING Real Estate (Waterfront City), MAB Corporation (New Quay) and Yarra City (370 Docklands Drive) worked closely with VicUrban to demonstrate the benefits of the route extension - considered vital to better connect Southern Cross Station and the CBD with the rapidly developing precinct.

VicUrban's General Manager Docklands and Major Projects, Michael Hynes, says it's a real win for the Docklands community of residents, businesses and visitors.

'This will result in an increased tram frequency to and from Docklands Drive and importantly provide a direct connection between Southern Cross Station and the New Quay and Waterfront City precincts of Docklands,' he said.

'With Public Transport a key mode of accessing Docklands, it remains a major priority of VicUrban to continually improve access to this vibrant community.'

As attractions such as the 120 metre high Observation Wheel take shape, the extended service will be of particular benefit to Melbourne, better connecting Melbournians to the Waterfront City and New Quay precincts which currently share the majority of the area's dining, retail and entertainment options. Increasing numbers of workers to the Docklands community also makes this announcement timely.

The changes are scheduled to come into effect by mid 2008, in readiness for other attractions and facilities planned for the area, including various retail outlets and residential opportunities.

In the interim, there are still a range of ways to get to Docklands by tram, train, car, ferry, bike or boat. See www.docklands.com.au for details.

The Melbourne Docklands precinct is currently one third complete or under construction and by around 2020 is expected to be home to 20,000 residents, 40,000 workers with 20 million visitors annually.

Release courtsey of VicUrban