Celia Choong
Senior Marketing Consultant,Singapore
Arup has been appointed lead consultant of a strategic infrastructure study to identify critical infrastructure needs in Melbourne’s north.
In collaboration with MGS Architecture, Buchan Consulting and Strategic Economic Consulting Group, Arup will undertake a two part strategic infrastructure study to define the infrastructure development strategy for Melbourne’s north and to capitalise on the region’s considerable – but presently unrealised – social, economic and environment potential.
The study is a first for Melbourne’s northern region and has been commissioned in partnership between NORTH Link, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Northern Melbourne, La Trobe University and the eight LGAs of Banyule, Darebin, Hume, Mitchell, Moreland, Nillumbik, Whittlesea and Yarra.
The project will focus on Melbourne’s northern region which has a population of over one million and which generates over 13% of Victoria’s total economic production (GDP). The study will take account of the significant growth, social and structural adjustment in the region, combined with the impacts of urban consolidation and the regional transition from its traditional manufacturing base to a more diversified and connected economy.
The first stage will scientifically quantify existing gaps in social, transport, utility, economic and environmental services in order to produce ‘Melbourne’s Northern Region Infrastructure Report Card’ and incorporate development priorities over the next 5-10 years.
The second stage will identify infrastructure requirements and actions necessary over a 10-50 year timeframe and importantly, will consider innovative funding approaches across both public and private investment mechanisms.