GURROWA PLACE DEVELOPMENT PROCEEDS WITH HERITAGE APPROVAL
27 Aug 2025
Lendlease has secured final heritage approval for its Gurrowa Place development, clearing the way for construction on one of the largest urban regeneration developments in Melbourne's history. The project, delivered in partnership with the City of Melbourne and Scape, will see a vibrant mixed-use precinct delivered at the southern edge of the Queen Victoria Market.
The approval by the Federal Government is in addition to relevant state planning and heritage approvals, and supports the delivery of new, well-located homes, student housing, public open space, and complementary retail alongside the restoration of the Franklin Street stores.
The $1.7 billion development includes three responsively designed, climate-resilient buildings forming a mixed-use precinct that offers a diverse range of high-quality housing, including amenity-rich build-to-rent apartments, affordable housing, and purpose-built student accommodation.
Gurrowa Place will also include a 1.8-hectare public park known as Market Square will replace the existing open-air car park - creating the largest addition of green space to the central city in decades - and the heritage restoration of the Franklin Street stores, which will enhance the market experience to attract more customers and boost business for traders.
“A new 1.8 hectare park ... and the restoration and conversion of the Franklin Street stores will support the market’s broader renewal program, helping to secure the market’s future while also maintaining and celebrating its rich history,” Adam Williams, Executive Director Development, Lendlease.
In the language of the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people, the traditional owners of the land, ‘Gurrowa’ means a place of exchange and interchange – being reflective of the purpose of the market and the vision of the urban renewal project.
"Through thoughtful design, this project will provide new and much-needed housing while ensuring this Melbourne icon can be enjoyed for many years to come," said Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt. “This project will offer modern facilities to make the market more accessible and appealing to traders, customers and tourists alike.”
According to the council, the project’s heritage consent allows it to progress to construction following relevant authority and permit approvals. Site works are expected to commence next year with the project to be completed in several stages.
