Wodonga’s growth continues with Junction opportunity

The Victorian Government has called for proposals to develop a key site in the heart of Wodonga, as part of the landmark Junction Place project.

Junction Place is Australia’s largest regional urban renewal project, rejuvenating the historic railway station and yards in central Wodonga.

The proposed new development is the final piece of puzzle that has created jobs and delivered high-quality public open spaces for Wodonga residents.

Minister for Priority Precincts Gavin Jennings launched the process to seek market submissions to buy and develop the 2.37-hectare site, known as Precinct 5, on the corner of South and Smythe streets.

Precinct 5 offers the opportunity for a mixed-use development, including commercial and retail elements.

“Wodonga is Victoria’s fastest-growing regional city and Junction Place has created jobs, new parks and amenities including cafes and restaurants for locals and visitors to enjoy," Mr Jennings said.

“Central Wodonga is a great place to live, work and play and we want visionary companies and individuals to come forward with their best proposals for how this vital precinct can be enhanced further.”

In early 2016, the Victorian Government appointed local developer Central Place to deliver a mixed-use precinct at Junction Place, to include commercial offices, residences, a cinema and hotel.

A townhouse development received planning approval in March and work is expected to commence later this year.

Planning approval for the cinema and entertainment centre was received in November 2018.

The Junction Place project has delivered important public spaces for the local community including the Promenade, Junction Square, Sidings Park and Richardson Park.

Junction Place is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, including Beer Craft Cafe, Beanstation Cafe and fine-dining destination Miss Amelie.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said Junction Place is forecast to inject up to $250 million into the local economy, creating local construction jobs as well as ongoing work in retail, accommodation and hospitality.

"Already the project has breathed new life into the heart of central Wodonga and this next stage is an opportunity to build on that good work," she said.

The request for proposals for Precinct 5 closes on October 28 with the successful developer expected to be appointed by early 2020.

Following the planning and design process, construction is expected to commence from 2022.

Development Victoria, the state’s urban renewal and property development authority, is delivering the Junction Place precinct in partnership with the City of Wodonga.

For more information, visit development.vic.gov.au/projects/Wodonga.