Victorian Planning Minister rezones 130 hectares of the inner city from Carlton to Parkville.
Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne has approved a rise in height limits around the future Parkville Station. 130 hectares of land north of the city, taking in the University of Melbourne’s 8000 square metre Carlton Connect project, has been rezoned to allow medium-density development of up to 60 metre heights. The precinct lies between the University of Melbourne and RMIT, taking in the two universities, four hospitals and a large part of Australia's medical research institutes. The future underground Parkville Station will be built beneath Grattan St with entrances for the hospitals, the University of Melbourne and University square. The City of Melbourne plans will provide heritage protection to maintain Carlton's historic character. “These plans give certainty and preserve Carlton’s look and feel. There’s a clear definition between the densely developed areas south of Victoria Street, to medium-rise buildings around Melbourne University and the residential areas of Carlton and Parkville further north," said Wynne. “The precinct is going to have a massive influx of jobs and investment. This is about setting it up for smart growth, so that more people can have liveable homes, be closer to work, while making sure Carlton retains its character.” Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the plan recognises the importance of the University of Melbourne and will "provide for the population growth that we envisage, the activation of the area and an appropriate recognition of our past.”