It’s been called Melbourne’s worst apartment complex and an example of poor planning and what not to do.
But after years of criticism, residents of Footscray’s Joseph Road precinct are attempting an image makeover for the much maligned apartments.
“For too long, the Joseph Road Precinct (JRP) has been described as a problem to be fixed, a planning mistake, a place of “dog-box” apartments and a symbol of what went wrong,” read a statement from the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group (JRPAG) released this week.
“However, the people who live here know a very different story.”
According to JRPAG, that story is one of “a riverside neighbourhood alive with people, energy and possibility on the banks of the Maribyrnong River”.
It’s a claim that would’ve seemed preposterous only a short time ago as the 15 hectare precinct still lacked essential infrastructure like sealed roads, footpaths and drainage systems long after a cluster of apartment towers had been built and thousands of residents had moved in.
But with the infrastructure gap now belatedly being bridged and new residents and businesses continuing to pour in (JRP is the fastest growing community in Footscray with more than 5000 residents) the JRPAG want a more positive image for their home.
“When you walk through the precinct you can see and feel the change,” the statement read.
“New cafes and small businesses such as Back Yard Grocery, Viet Tong, La Porchetta, Cafe No. 14, Little Bean Shop, Cafe LaRome, Fitness First, Studio Zero hairdresser and two laundromats are bringing life and activity to the streets.
“Two more businesses are also about to open too.”
With many of these businesses facing busy Hopkins Street, the residents group has continued its campaign for road safety measures such as traffic lights and signals to be installed at the intersection with Hallenstein Street.
The cause was boosted last month when a coroner’s report into the death of JRP resident Frances Ramirez at the intersection in November 2023, recommended these and other safety measures be installed.
In the meantime, the group’s re-branding efforts will begin in earnest on 30 November with the free family-friendly festival, The River Landings Community Event.
Details: www.jrpag.org/
