THE PORT of Melbourne is to undertake its biggest expansion since its long-term lease was granted in 2016 by securing a long-term lease of the former Melbourne Markets Site.

The lease of approximately 29 hectares is part of a strategic transformation of the Port precinct.

In a media release issued on 30 August it says the lease will play a critical role in preserving Port of Melbourne as the key trade gateway for Southeastern Australia, while reducing congestion and minimising impact to surrounding communities.

The Port of Melbourne expects to invest more than $200 million into its development.

Already Australia’s largest general cargo and container port, the long-term lease with the Victorian Government will give access to additional land that the media release says will bolster Victoria’s supply chain efficiency and resilience.

The port precinct supports a $36-billion freight sector that employs 260,000 Victorians.

Port of Melbourne CEO Saul Cannon said with container volumes at Port of Melbourne expected to double by 2050, access to additional land at the former Melbourne Markets site unlocks opportunities that are critical to the future needs of Victoria.

“Port of Melbourne is proud to invest in developing the site to support forecast growth and demands,” Mr Cannon said.

Consistent with the Victorian Government’s 2018 Victorian Freight Plan, Port of Melbourne will invest in developing the site for a range of uses, including truck parking facilities and container storage.

The establishment of port functions at this site will improve traffic movement in the area, complementing the West Gate Tunnel when it opens.

Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said the lease was a great deal for Victoria.

“We’re getting more trucks off local roads, increasing the amount of freight the Port of Melbourne can handle, boosting trade and the economy, while strengthening Victoria’s supply chains.”

Owned by VicTrack, the site is optimally positioned for port use. It moves freight and logistics functions closer to the port, making for smoother movement of freight, and in turn, relieving pressure on the inner west.

The announcement was welcomed by Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA).

It said in a media release that it was particularly pleased the port will invest in developing the site for a range of uses including truck parking facilities and container storage.

“CTAA has been consistent in the view that as the largest container port in Australia, the Port of Melbourne needs a state-of-the-art Truck Marshalling Area (TMA).  It is the only major capital city port in Australia that doesn’t have a TMA currently.

“The long-term lease and investment in the old Melbourne Markets site north of Footscray Road provides the perfect opportunity to address demand for a well-designed Truck Marshalling Area (TMA).

“And, we shouldn’t just aspire to create a ‘low tech’ parking area for truck drivers awaiting their next job in the Port.

“We have the opportunity to work with the Port of Melbourne, the container terminals and other container logistics-related facilities in the Swanson Dock precinct (and perhaps even further afield) to link truck arrivals at the TMA to operating systems to give greater visibility of heavy vehicle locations and readiness to be serviced.

“Also, we should design the facility to be able to direct trucks to the TMA to await instructions and call-up during port congestion or other disruption events.  

“CTAA and our Alliance companies look forward to close collaboration and consultation with the Port of Melbourne as plans are designed for the use of the old Melbourne Markets site.”