Architects have been appointed to undertake the design of stage one of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan in Victoria, which will include new lookouts and pedestrian bridge.
Denton Corker Marshall is one of the world’s leading design practices, having designed the Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Exhibition Centre, and the Museum of Sydney.
Key design partners McGregor Coxall and Arup have also been engaged.
The Victorian Government has invested $9.8 million for the design and delivery of stage one, which includes the construction of two new lookouts at the Twelve Apostles and the Loch Ard Gorge, as well as a new pedestrian bridge in Port Campbell.
The new world-class lookouts at the Saddle and the Blowhole will showcase the breathtaking views along the Great Ocean Road, and help visitors learn about the rich cultural heritage and pristine environment in Victoria’s south-west.
The government will ensure that cultural heritage is maintained, respected and celebrated through its collaboration with the Traditional Owners, from the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation.
The new pedestrian bridge will connect Port Campbell to the Discovery Trail and the Port Campbell National Park, giving visitors uninhibited access to these international landmarks.
Denton Corker Marshall have started working on concept designs for the three sites, with the final designs due 2018.
The Shipwreck Coast encompasses 28km of coastline in the south-west, attracting more than five million visits a year. The Twelve Apostles attract up to 11,000 visitors a day, with more than 2.1 million visits expected in mid-2018.
Detailed design for the three projects will begin in early 2018, with tenders for construction to open in early 2019.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “We’re using world-class architects to create a world-class visitor experience for the iconic Shipwreck Coast.
“These projects will showcase and protect this pristine coastline, and help local and international visitors learn more about the natural environment and rich cultural heritage of the region.”
