Coburg Renewal Project Prioritizes Council Control, Addresses gentrification Concerns
A sweeping urban renewal plan for central Coburg, Victoria, is underway, with the first stage – a $60 million library and public piazza – slated for completion by 2029.The broader vision, aiming to transform the area, is expected to unfold over the next 10 to 15 years.
The project represents a significant shift in approach following the failure of a previous large-scale redevelopment attempt nearly 15 years ago. That earlier initiative, which collapsed in 2011, involved a partnership with the Grollo family-owned Equiset and was ultimately cancelled due to financial disagreements. Since then, central coburg has seen limited investment or renewal.
Merri-bek Mayor Helen Davidson emphasized the distinct nature of this new plan. “this is on a much smaller scale that allows for council control because we own the land,” she stated, “so it allows for a much more consultative approach, were we can really focus on improving the outcomes and the quality of growth for residents and businesses.” This emphasis on local authority is a key departure from the previous developer-led strategy.
Did you know? – Coburg was originally known as Pentridge, named after the estate of a prominent early settler. The name changed in 1887 to honor Prince Leopold,Duke of Albany.
The renewal is occurring amidst ongoing changes in Coburg, including the recent completion of a level crossing removal project and the planned development of a Coburg Health Hub on Bell Street. “So times are changing,” Davidson noted, “and we’re testing this concept with the community now to make sure we’ve got the balance right.”
The proposed redevelopment encompasses a comprehensive overhaul of the area, including the creation of six new open spaces, a network of streets and laneways, 8,000 square meters of retail and commercial space, and 2,000 square meters of office space. Additionally, existing power lines will be moved underground, and the popular Victoria Mall will undergo a significant redesign.
Pro tip: – Urban renewal projects often benefit from phased implementation. Starting with smaller, visible improvements builds community trust and demonstrates progress.
A central theme of the project, as articulated by rob McGauran, a principal at MGS Architects advising the council, is a move towards a more sustainable and pedestrian-kind habitat.”We all know things are heating up,” McGauran said, pointing to the fact that “more than a third of the area of central Coburg is just bitumen at the moment, at-grade bitumen car parks.” He argued that reducing the prevalence of expansive parking lots is crucial, both for environmental reasons and for maximizing the value of existing public transport and local businesses.
Addressing the growing issue of gentrification in the northern corridor,including Coburg and Preston,is also a priority. McGauran explained that investing in affordable and higher-density housing in the center of Coburg could help retain key workers – in fields like education, retail, and healthcare – and families who have long called the area home. “We’re seeing that with the gentrification… rapidly becoming unaffordable,” he said.
Reader question: – how can a city balance new development with preserving the character of established neighborhoods? What are your thoughts?
The council is not mandating apartment living, but rather advocating for increased housing choices within the activity center. “Council’s not saying that everybody has to live in an apartment in the future,” a council representative clarified. “It’s really saying, though, that those choices should be available in Coburg, and that this is the right sort of location for
