Plans to transform the 160-year-old Dandenong Market, in south-east Melbourne, are currently on display with the City of Greater Dandenong, with the public encouraged to submit their feedback.
In operation since 1866, Dandenong Market is Melbourne’s second oldest and second largest market. The market’s current location on the corner of Clow Street and Cleeland Street was last redeveloped in 2010 with a $26 million refurbishment and expansion of the pre-existing facility into an “urban market”.
Designed by a team comprising McP Studio, BKK Architects and Glas Landscape, the 20-year strategic vision for the precinct is intended to honour the market’s heritage while ensuring its future activation. It encompasses an expanded area to the east and south of the market site, currently home to the Dandenong Neighbourhood House and Palm Plaza. A new community hub is also proposed for the precinct.
BKK director Simon Knott commented that stakeholder engagement and expert consultation have shaped the precinct plan, with inspiration drawn from market precincts around the world.
According to Knott, the plan reimagines the site as a people-focused destination, featuring a variety of contemporary urban spaces, including pedestrianised streets, laneways, parks and squares, all guided by sustainable principles.
“The design prioritises green, shaded environments centred around the theme of water and also reflect the rich history of the area,” he said.
New opportunities for local businesses and community-led spaces, alongside the potential for diverse housing types – including market-rate, affordable and social housing – are also envisaged. Under the plan, housing supply across the precinct could be increased by approximately 1,000 dwellings, with further housing built above the market itself.
The proposal can be accessed, and feedback submitted by 10 April, on the City of Greater Dandenong’s website. The final precinct plan is scheduled to be presented to councillors for adoption in July 2026.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
