Works to transform Docklands\' Harbour Esplanade into a new harbourside destination are progressing well, with the bulk of works occurring in the median, to realign tram tracks into the centre of the roadway.

The first stage of works, between Bourke Street and Docklands Drive, are due for completion in 2011 and will result in the creation of a tree-lined boulevard, dedicated bike and pedestrian paths, and the realignment of tram tracks into the centre of the roadway, to provide additional parkland and recreational space.

The new tram tracks have been positioned in the centre of the road between Bourke and La Trobe streets, and construction of the tram crossing at the Dudley Street / Docklands Drive intersection has commenced.

Construction of the pedestrian footpath, on the eastern side of Harbour Esplanade has commenced. The majority of trees, between Bourke and La Trobe streets have been removed to make way for more than two hundred mature Norfolk Island Pines that will be planted towards the end of 2010. These trees form part of many well loved Australian waterfront settings and will ultimately grow to frame Harbour Esplanade and create a green spine. The palm trees that have been removed along Harbour Esplanade have been relocated to the Established Tree Transplanters Nursery at Hoddles Creek while works take place, and will later be replanted at an alternative location within Docklands. The remaining palm trees will remain in place until plans for subsequent stages are finalised.

As previously advised, Harbour Esplanade will need to close to traffic and trams between Bourke and La Trobe streets for five days to finalise the new tram track works, and transfer the tram services to the new tram tracks in the centre of the road. Following the five day losure, the trams will run in the new configuration. These works were scheduled for Monday 30 August to
Friday 3 September, but will now be conducted later in the year to minimise disruption to football traffic and other major events, and to ensure all necessary underground service works are completed prior to the tram services change over.

VicUrban and Yarra Trams will provide further information regarding the five day closure in due course, and will continue to work with residents and businesses to inform them of traffic and tram changes.

To stay informed with the progress
of Stage 1 works, keep an eye on
www.docklands.com
or to be provided with regular
updates via email, please email
harbour.esplanade@vicurban.vic.gov.au