Case Study: Nauru House, Melbourne
The tree-lined eastern end of Collins Street, Melbourne, is characterised by a fine array of late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century architecture, and is known as ‘the Paris end of Collins Street’.
However, there are aberrations in the streetscape. Some insensitive late twentieth-century developments have ignored the predominant building alignment and setback, creating unfortunate intrusions or gaps within this significant urban environment.
In 2001, experts from Godden Mackay Logan provided key evidence in a hearing before the Victorian Civil Appeals Tribunal (VCAT), regarding plans for a proposed extension to Nauru House, which would have adversely affected the streetscape in the vicinity of important heritage items near the corner of Collins and Exhibition Streets.
In considering the heritage effects of the proposed development, GML Partners David Logan and Richard Mackay were conscious of the contribution made by remnant heritage items to the streetscape of Collins Street and the ‘Collins East Precinct’ of the City of Melbourne. We recognised the visual setting of these buildings, including their low-scale landmark quality and ability to be ‘read in the round’ as important to their significance.
In evidence tendered at the VCAT hearing, our experts demonstrated the principles that should apply to appropriate infill development at this sensitive site, having regard to street alignment, the predominant parapet level and general architectural character.
In assessing the proposed development, we demonstrated its major adverse heritage impact arising from the visual overcrowding of adjacent heritage items, inappropriate design details and configuration.
Our evidence was critical to the success of the appeal, and demonstrated how a thorough analysis, based on sound conservation planning principles, can be used to determine the manner in which proposals for sensitive heritage sites should address the policies of the Melbourne Planning Scheme.
Location: Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria
Client: Blake Dawson Waldron
Project Type: Expert Witness; Statement of Evidence