Robert Lees

The CBD has evolved beyond just the central district for business. It is the epicentre for public services, yet there is spatial injustice within the CBD as it favours those predominantly within the workforce and of higher socioeconomic standings. This is due to the gentrification of the surrounding areas and other complex factors. The lack of inclusionary design has meant that many vulnerable communities have been pushed out into the fringes of Melbourne's urban sprawl. The project responds to the fallout of the current Middle Eastern crisis, and the impending increase of Afghani refugees and subsequent challenges that that community will face.

The Social Infrastructure Proposal for the CBD runs alongside the Spatial Equity Project and encompasses four key stages. Stage 01, Identify, the identification of groups facing inequity. Stage 02, Occupy, the new street typology. Stage 03, Transform, the repurposing of obsolete buildings and property that begins to fortify public orientated services and needs. To finally stage 04, multiply, where the framework can be multiplied across the city as new target groups are identified. Through this Spatial Equity project and the larger Social Infrastructure Proposal strategy, a new CBD typology arises, one embedded in the sharing of knowledge, culture and most importantly, of equitable spaces.

What if there were tangible spaces in the CBD, woven within the gaps of the fabric of the city that shifted the narrative from economic exchange, consumption and privatisation to inclusionary frameworks, cultural discourse and equal access to public space? A place to come together, to provide services and to share.

The multitude of programs provide the community with the infrastructure and opportunities for self determination .There are spaces set out for religious celebrations as well as private zones to perform prayer, with open areas to share experiences and knowledge. The project lays the framework for economic opportunities through both production and the sharing of goods, as well as targeted services for both locals and visitors. When all woven together, the new street typology provides opportunity for self determination, and begins to bridge the equity gap within the CBD.

The ceremony of storytelling gives rise to spaces to gather, share and pass on knowledge. Through this exchange, the self determination of a community surfaces that is able to share and practice through their own lens. Storytelling begins the breakdown of barriers through exposure and education.