$73m office block will go ahead

THE STATE Government has confirmed plans for a multi-million dollar government services building in the heart of Dandenong 12 months after it was first revealed.
The proposed site is on the south-west corner of Thomas and Walker streets, just 300 metres from Dandenong Station, with the proposed City Walk development at its rear.
Star first revealed the State Government’s plans in April 2007, as details emerged about VicUrban’s master plan for the $290 million Revitalising Central Dandenong project.
Planning Minister Justin Madden announced this week that the government would spend $73 million on the building. It would become the first new commercial office building constructed in central Dandenong for 20 years, he said.
“As part of this year’s State Budget the Brumby Government committed $19 million to accommodate Government tenants in the new building. The 10-storey building will bring the Department of Human Services as the anchor tenant in central Dandenong,” Mr Madden said.
“This will allow improved efficiencies and create a modern service system.
“This new building will add to the $290 million the Brumby Government has already invested to revitalise central Dandenong.”
The building’s construction will create 456 full-time positions and nine full-time positions from ongoing facility management.
Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos said the development would stimulate private investment in Dandenong and improve community access to Government facilities.
Mr Madden said the government’s commitment to sustainable office space would lead to an improvement in the quality of buildings in the region.
“The building will be designed for a minimum of 5-Star Green Star and will integrate with the street with active street frontages incorporated,” Mr Madden said.