Sally Capp, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, said the council is putting money into Queen Street infrastructure, a move that will see essential services delivered for traders and facilities refurbished for all visitors, shoppers and market workers. The work will create many jobs, as well as securing the future of the market, and she added:
“Now, more than ever, we need to deliver this significant project that will protect this important National Heritage listed site and ensure Melbourne’s top visitor attraction is ready to welcome visitors back.”
The list of proposed new facilities includes recycling, waste, storage and logistics facilities, as well as meeting rooms to be used by the 2,000 people who work at the market, along with showers and toilets for customers and traders.
The number of small businesses hosted within the Queen Victoria Market is in excess of 600, and the latest renewal project will ensure a more efficient, sustainable and safe place for all, according to the Lord Mayor.
Heritage buildings such as the market have often been promoted as part of brochure printing campaigns highlighting key places of interest to visit.
Plans for the delivery of new and upgrade facilities at the site have already been lodged with Melbourne City Council for consideration in the near future. Approval success will pave the way for staged works to begin this year. Completion is scheduled for 2024.