Melbourne's docklands authority has embarked on a £2.4bn redevelopment of its Australian docklands, which it hopes will give it a waterfront to match that of its great rival, Sydney.

Over a 15 year building plan the Docklands development will double the size of the central business district (CBD) and will add seven kilometres of waterfront for the use of the city's more than 3m inhabitants.

The project will include a A$40m film and television studio and 'digital harbour' as well as water activities and a 40-metre wide Grand Plaza public promenade with cafes, restaurants and shops.

'Melbourne has turned its back on the water for very many years,' John Tabart, chief executive of the Docklands Authority told The Financial Times. 'This is our chance to create a new forecourt for the city.'

John Pandazopoulos, a minister in the Victoria state government says the new Melbourne Docklands is expected to irrevocably change the look and feel of Melbourne: 'It will become a waterfront destination for an estimated 20 million visitors each year, home for 15,000 people and a workplace for 20,000.'

The development is to provide a total of 5-10 per cent leisure and retail space; a 5-10 per cent area for hotels; 30 per cent business, high tech and office space; a 50 per cent residential allocation and 5-10 per cent for stadium and other uses. It will be financed mainly by the private sector. Details: 0061 1300 66 3008 or visit www.docklands.com/waterfront/welcome.shtml