Crown Resorts and Schivello Group have received approval for their proposal to develop the Queensbridge Hotel Tower in Melbourne's Southbank, named One Queensbridge, which is set to be Australia's tallest tower upon completion.
The 90-storey development designed by British-based architects Wilkinson Eyre will comprise 388 rooms in a luxury six-star hotel, along with 700 luxury apartments, with a publicly accessible restaurant and lounge atop the tower.
Located adjacent to the Yarra River amongst Melbourne’s premier living and leisure destinations, the proposed tallest tower in Australia will become an extension of Crown Melbourne Resort. As principal architect, Wilkinson Eyre has crafted an elegant design that embraces three interlocking sculptural forms which provide a graceful and unique addition to the Melbourne skyline.
Crown Resorts Executive Vice President Strategy and Development Todd Nisbet thanked the design team at Wilkinson Eyre for "developing a truly iconic design" which was the result of an international design competition during 2015.
"Melbourne is one of the world's most liveable cites. We believe One Queensbridge will add to the liveability and vibrancy of city life in Southbank," he said.
Premier Daniel Andrews joined Minister for Planning Richard Wynne at Southbank on Thursday morning to announce the planning approval for the new 90-storey tower.
The hotel will generate 3000 direct and indirect construction jobs, then around 1000 jobs following its completion.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the 4000 jobs the project will create is another sign of confidence in Victoria as a state of momentum.
"This is a bold transformation of Melbourne's skyline that will build on the state's reputation as the nation's leader for tourism," he said.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne said it was a great outcome for Victoria.
"It's a jobs and economic windfall for the state and the community benefits package will be great news for this iconic part of Melbourne," he said.
The Government has taken steps to ensure Crown Melbourne and Schiavello Group "give back" to the state with a $100 million community benefits package which includes:
$25 million upgrade to Queensbridge Square including landscaping and cafes
A further $15 million for the Sandbridge Rail Bridge
Landscaping and public realm improvements on Southbank Boulevard, including a bike strip
Street furniture and trees along Queensbridge Street.
