By Dianne Smith
The Victorian tourism and events industry says the plan to redevelop Flinders Street Station is a fantastic opportunity for the city and would be another feather in Victoria’s cap.
Earlier this month the Baillieu Government announced a design competition calling for ideas to rejuvenate the precinct, including surrounding areas, to restore one of Melbourne’s most famous buildings to its past glories.
A redeveloped Flinders Street Station has the potential to provide world class hospitality and events facilities in historically significant surroundings.
The project should be visionary and ambitious as it provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to redeveloped a historically significant and immensely recognisable landmark that will be for the benefit of locals and visitors alike.
With the right mix of facilities, a redeveloped Flinders Street Station will become a visitor destination in itself.
There are great examples around the world of similar redeveloped precincts that have a combination of experiences for visitors. Take Grand Central Station in New York, for example; it has become a major tourist attraction with its mix of retail shops and dining areas while remaining a working train station.
The once magnificent ballroom would be an absolute boon for the Victorian events industry, providing another unique space to add to the already impressive list of locations for functions.
In the increasingly competitive convention and business event industry, a redeveloped Flinders Street Station would be another advantage we have over competitors.
Dianne Smith is the Acting CEO of the Victorian Tourism Industry Council.
What would you propose to rejuvenate Flinders Street Station and its surrounds? We’ve love to hear your ideas.
‘Bout time the old Grand Dame was tarted up!