THE old Binks Ford site next to Footscray railway station is a step closer to becoming a $500million high-density residential and commercial development.
Planning Minister Matthew Guy last week approved rezoning of the former car dealership.
State government development agency Places Victoria, which owns the land, is finalising a master plan for the 0.9-hectare site to convert it into medium and high-density residences, including a deck over the rail tracks.
Places Victoria urban revitalisation manager Dominic Arcaro last year said it was a rare opportunity to have buildings over rail tracks with a mix of residential, commercial and community use while improving access to the station.
Almost half the development would comprise apartments.
Mr Guy said in a statement the government wanted to see urban renewal in places that could “accommodate population growth and a mix of housing as well as being well-connected and serviced locations”.
Maribyrnong mayor John Cumming said the council welcomed the rezoning and hoped the project would be a catalyst for further regeneration in Footscray.
The site, at 34 Cowper Street, is next to the eastern edge of the Melbourne-to-Footscray rail corridor and directly north-east of Footscray station. The master plan is expected to be on display in the coming weeks.
■As reported by the Weekly, an application has been lodged for a 354-apartment development at 62 Wests Road, Maribyrnong.
Developer Mi-Pad Pty Ltd proposes to build five buildings on the site, with heights ranging from three to 19 storeys.
Maribyrnong Council in early 2009 rejected an application by the Australian Affordable Housing Association for 271 apartments in three towers of up to eight storeys.
