(former)
Russell Street Police Headquarters Complex
336-376
Russell Street, Melbourne, Victoria
Winter
2006 - Preservation News
After being added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2002,
any changes to surfaces or signage must be approved by Heritage Victoria. Imagine our shock when we saw that a glazed coating had been applied by contractors (engaged by the Body Corporate) to the base of the building to a height of about 2m, obstensibly to protect the building from grafitti.
The coating was not approved by Heritage Victoria and they are now taking action to redress the situation and seeking a solution that will leave little damage to the building fabric.
Summer
2002 - Preservation News
Apartments
in the Art Deco tower at Russell Street are now being marketed and a display
apartment has been set up on the ground floor, featuring some very fine
Deco flourishes. At the same time, work has commenced on the restoration
of the exterior.
Spring
2001 - Preservation News
We
are delighted to report that the future of the classic Art Deco Russell
Street Police Complex now seems to be assured. For some time ADS and other
heritage bodies have been involved with discussions with Melbourne property
developer, Max Moar, and his architects over the plans for the redevelopment
of the site, called Concept Blue. Mr Moar has a deep love of the Deco
style and has been determined that the mini-skyscraper will be restored
as an integral part of the large apartment complex. A permit was recently
granted by Heritage Victoria and the project was officially launched by
the Minister for Infrastructure, John Brumby. What a pleasure it was to
hear the words 'Art Deco' roll off the Minister's tongue as he spoke of
the importance of the building to Victoria. What a far cry from the previous
government, which demolished the Agriculture Building and its Grierson
Theatre and approved the destruction of the classic modernist Prince Henry's
Hospital. The project demonstrates what can be achieved when enlightened
developers work with heritage bodies and are supported by government,
and ADS is delighted with the outcome. Many thanks to ADS Heritage Officer,
Cliff Skinner, for his work on this project. You can check out the project
at www.conceptblue.com.au
Winter
2001 - Preservation News
The planning for the redevelopment of our mini-skyscraper continues, under
the watchful eye of Cliff Skinner, Honorary Heritage Officer for ADS.
Cliff and I recently met with the owner and architect, who revealed a
great understanding of the Deco era and the priceless nature of this building.
The plans are currently being reviewed and we are confident of a great
outcome for this project after the previous two development proposals
fell through.
Summer
2001 - Preservation News
Another proposal has been lodged for the redevelopment of the site. This
is the third in recent years, and it looks the best of them. The redevelopment
will include a large block of apartments, set well back from the tower.
The developer will also undertake to restore the original building. ADS
is keen for redevelopment to occur before the cost and effort of restoration
becomes prohibitive. Initial plans have been inspected by Cliff Skinner
and discussions commenced with the architects, Heritage Victoria and the
National Trust.
