An arts hub, open spaces, multi-storey car parking, residential and commercial buildings are at the heart of an ambitious masterplan for some of the Kingston Foreshore’s remaining undeveloped space.
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The masterplan, set to be released by the ACT Government on Thursday, would see the foreshore’s section 49 developed over a number of years, retaining heritage buildings including the Kingston Glassworks, Fitters’ Workshop and the Old Bus Depot Markets.
The proposed arts hub would form a focal point for the 5.4-hectare precinct and be used to increase activity in the area outside of traditional peak periods, including during weekdays and at night.
Currently much of the site, bordered by Eastlake Parade, Wentworth Avenue and Giles Street, is unleased territory land with minimal development and open surface car parking.
As much as 30 per cent of the site would be designated as open space, with the proposed arts hub to be made up of purpose-built buildings and the adaption of the existing heritage sites.
Residential capacity in the area would see about 150 units created, as well as several small developments for office space and parking for about 500 cars.
The first actions under the masterplan includes the provision of land for the arts buildings and residential developments.
Arts Minister Joy Burch said the next step for the site's development will be a feasibility study to investigate planning and construction.
The Economic Development Directorate is considering the construction of a multi-storey car park, with requirements for as many as 1575 spaces considered in the wider area.
Ms Burch said the feasibility study would be completed by successful tenderers Colin Stewart Architects.
“The Kingston Foreshore is rapidly developing as an exciting precinct with homes, restaurants, cafes and wonderful arts facilities,'' Ms Burch said.
“artsACT has been working closely with the Land Development Agency to ensure that development of the arts precinct fits within the wider redevelopment of the Kingston Foreshore.''
The $300,000 study will guide government development of the precinct, with funding provided in the 2013-14 budget.
“The feasibility study will provide the ACT Government with options for the development of the precinct and investigate how we can maximise the site for arts and cultural activity,” she said.
The masterplan document was produced after community consultation workshops and focus group testing with randomly selected people.
The consultation identified the need for the area to be more widely used on weekdays and at night and for existing views towards Lake Burley Griffin to be retained.
Also included is consideration of the Telopea Park Substation, which will remain at the site.
The masterplan calls for the visual prominence of the Power House building and Fitters’ Workshop to be protected, with future development immediately adjacent to the buildings to be limited to the underside of the eaves of the Power House, or about 12.8 metres.
Building heights in areas that are not adjacent to the Power House or the Fitters' Workshop will be consistent with the Territory Plan.