Planning Minister Justin Madden today called-in from VCAT a proposal for the $80 million redevelopment of the Ringwood Market Site at the corner of Bond and Market Streets.
Mr Madden said the proposed development could provide a major injection into the local economy offering around 17,800 square metres of new retail floorspace and 12,400 square metres of office space.
The proposal is estimated to create more than 110 jobs during construction and some 960 ongoing jobs once it is complete.
“The proposal is estimated to create more than 110 jobs during construction and some 960 ongoing jobs once it is complete.”
“The market is an important redevelopment site within the Ringwood Central Activities District, a priority area for development as outlined in our plan to manage growth and create a multi-centred city,” Mr Madden said.
“Any proposal for this site is critical to the success of this Central Activity District and supporting Ringwood’s development into a hub of local economic activity.
“Given the scale of the proposal, it is important that it is considered in the context of its role within Ringwood and the region, and that a decision is made in a timely manner.
“For these reasons I have determined to call the matter in from VCAT.”
The call-in follows support from the Maroondah City Council for Ministerial assistance in resolving the matter.
Mr Madden said Ringwood had been identified as one of six Central Activities Districts in Melbourne @ 5 million, the Victorian Government’s long-term plan for managing growth.
“We are working closely with Maroondah City Council to develop a vibrant, attractive and safe central shopping area,” he said.
“The Brumby Labor Government has invested more than $44 million in Ringwood.
“This is to plan for better transport connections and pedestrian amenity, create a new town square and urban heart, improve the public realm and stimulate additional private investment.”
Mr Madden said significant projects in key locations such as this required integrated consideration so that residents and workers had appropriate access to more shops, more jobs and much needed housing.
“We are supporting communities now and into the future,” he said.
“By creating CBD-like centres, people have the opportunity to live and work in the same area, reducing the need to commute and increasing time spent with family and friends.”
Senior officers of the Department of Planning and Community Development will hear from parties to the proceedings and consider the proposal before a recommendation is made on the project.