A proposal to redevelop the site of Preston Market threatens the character and possibly very existence of the market, with stallholders and shoppers concerned that the fresh food sellers could be squeezed out altogether. Developer Salta Properties plans to redevelop the market site and build 2,200 apartments across towers of 12, 16 and 20 storeys.
Under the plans the market would remain, but most of the 120 stallholders would have to move to a new site during construction, though they will be able to continue to trade where they are until the new stalls are ready. The overall footprint of the market would not be reduced, but many stallholders and fans of the market fear the redevelopment would destroy the market's character.
The Victorian Planning Authority is considering its submission for planning minister Richard Wynne about the proposal, so the plans are some way from being finalised. But local lobby group Save the Preston Market fears the worst.
Unlike Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne Market, which are run by local government, Preston Market is in private hands. The group is calling on the state and local government to compulsorily acquire the site and prevent the development from going ahead. It has suggested an alternative redevelopment plan that would be much lower rise to preserve the character of the area.