Revitalizing the Maribyrnong River waterfront for the Footscray community

Footscray Wharf and Promenade

Founded in the 1850s, Footscray is the heart of Melbourne’s inner west, along the Maribyrnong River. Originally a center for industry and trade, when economic conditions changed, the industries moved out and the link to the water and history was lost.

But out of adversity comes opportunity—when the Maribyrnong City Council created the Footscray River Edge Master Plan, they envisaged reconnecting the community to the river by creating a vibrant river edge to attract and engage the community. Our role included the detailed design and documentation of the Footscray Wharf and Promenade, incorporating the historical character of the site though repurposed historical elements. We also provided geotechnical investigations and approvals, civil design, maritime design, and design of all associated services.

The reimagined site includes a long wharf with a lower landing and a floating pontoon allowing small to medium boats to moor. A pedestrian promenade is equipped with seating, sheltered picnic areas, and barbecues, offering space for groups to gather. Reimagined and reinvigorated, this iconic transformation takes visitors from an active urban waterfront to a natural river’s edge. Footscray Wharf and Promenade has successfully retained the site's historical elements and created a waterfront that boosts civic pride in the local community.