Vicinity is a step closer to realising its vision to revitalise Box Hill’s CBD, with the Council’s approval of its plans to bring to life the first stage of its mixed-use precinct at Box Hill Central.
Part of Vicinity’s 10-year masterplan vision to transform 5.5 hectares into a world-class mixed-use and retail precinct, Whitehorse City Council’s approval paves the way for the development of the precinct’s first office tower, residential tower, and new town square, with a combined investment value of about $700 million.
Vicinity’s Chief Development Officer, Carolyn Viney, said, “The proposed redevelopment of the Box Hill Central precinct will transform the heart of Box Hill into a new, world-class destination for Melbourne.
“Since plans were submitted, we have worked closely with Council, State Government and the community to ensure that design reflects the site’s rich history and responds to the community’s aspirations and preferences to live, work and play close to home.
Plans include a new town square and the precinct’s first residential and commercial towers
“Reaching this important milestone makes way for the first stage of development that will create a new east-west pedestrian connection through the town centre which will be complemented by a community plaza and Spanish-steps inspired amphitheatre, a new residential tower for more than 600 residents and commercial office space for 2,000 workers.
“This exciting project reflects our long-term confidence and investment in Box Hill’s future growth and builds on its existing strengths, including its longstanding reputation as a key destination to visit for fresh food and rich dining experiences.”
Box Hill Central is set to become one of Melbourne’s largest private mixed-use developments, and this first stage is expected to deliver more than 50,000m2 of commercial office space, 366 apartments and 3,350m2 of new public spaces. It will also create new walkways and roads to interconnect the precinct’s transport, retail, and dining offerings.
What is currently a concrete loading bay and car park at the western end of Main Street will become an urban plaza through landscaping, street furniture and open space for passive recreation
In considering the applications, Council noted that the plans would help create a space for people to work and live while boosting the local area for visitors, shoppers and commuters.
Vicinity’s vision for Box Hill Central is, in every sense, a true mixed-use outcome, where its offerings complement each other while taking advantage of Box Hill being one of Melbourne’s busiest rail and bus transport hubs.
Overall, the redevelopment is expected to deliver approximately 2,400 construction jobs during the building phase and more than 6,000 new jobs for the precinct upon completion.
