A new 60-metre-long viewing platform has been erected along the St Kilda foreshore giving locals and visitors a new way to take in stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.
The $12 million project has upgraded and transformed the old Shakespeare Grove Main Drain into an asset the whole community can enjoy.
The viewing platforms is now open to the public, with final reinstatement works to be completed next month.
The design of this structure was informed by extensive public engagement. Melbourne Water is working with the community to deliver maximum community and environmental benefits when it replaces or builds essential new infrastructure.
The final design of the drain includes a circular shaped viewing platform which takes in panoramic views of St Kilda foreshore and Port Phillip Bay and includes seating along the platform so that people can enjoy the views.
The new community platform stretches into Port Phillip Bay and was built in sections off-site and arrived in three pieces to be installed onsite, which is quite the engineering feat.
The drain outlet is a discharge point for stormwater and minimises the impacts of flooding in St Kilda, Balaclava and Caulfield.
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Water Harriet Shing
“This drain outlet is critical for keeping the community safe during flooding events and its transformation to double as a viewing platform makes great use of its prime position along St Kilda Beach.”
Quote attributable to Member for Albert Park Martin Foley
“This new viewing platform was designed to reflect the community’s input and feedback following extensive engagement with the public.”
Quote attributable to Member for Southern Metropolitan Nina Taylor
“It’s great to have a new community asset along St Kilda Beach, now that it’s open the public can enjoy another great spot to take in the beautiful vista of Port Phillip Bay.”
Reviewed 04 April 2022