In partnership with the City of Melbourne and Department of Treasury and Finance, Riverlee is proud to have received final approval for Seafarers Rest, a new public park on the banks of the Yarra River (Birrarung).

The 3,500 square metre public park will sit adjacent to Seafarers and provide open space to users, residents and visitors of the Northbank precinct.

Designed by Oculus, Seafarers Rest is a vital link in connecting Northbank to the CBD, made possible through a private-public partnership. The design has been developed through a consultative process with the community, traditional custodians, local businesses and numerous maritime organisations, with the outcome honouring both its First Nation and European maritime history.

Riverlee development director David Lee says, “Seafarers Rest has been part of Riverlee’s plan to transform this somewhat forgotten part of the city for many years, so we are excited to officially be progressing with our plans in creating a green, open space by the river for everyone to enjoy. Through a highly collaborative process, we are proud to make possible the largest programmed park outside of Birrarrung Marr that allows for connection with the river.”

New images show what the approved park, which draws on the site’s maritime heritage, will look like and includes open lawns, play areas, event spaces, seating and an urban forest. The design features maritime-inspired elements such as rope swings and crates while catering to a diverse range of users and functions.

Seafarers Rest will form part of the Northbank chain of parks, connecting through to Batman Park, Enterprize Park and Birrarung Marr, delivering on the City of Melbourne’s Open Space Strategy.

“Seafarers Rest Park will be a valuable link into Docklands, increasing public open space while providing access to our maritime district,” says Lord Mayor Sally Capp.

Designers of the park, Oculus, are ensuring Seafarers Rest will retain a stand of established eucalypts and achieve the City of Melbourne’s 40 per cent Urban Forest Canopy target.

“Seafarers Rest is a public park delivered through developer open space contributions reinforcing the role private landholders can play in delivering social infrastructure and public value through equitably distributed public realm that meet green infrastructure targets,” says Oculus associate director Claire Martin.

Seafarers Rest will open in 2024, with the Seafarers building encompassing the restored Goods Shed No.5, luxury residential and Australia’s first 1 Hotel, to be completed in 2024.