Minister Barr: Revitalisation of Canberra’s iconic Sydney and Melbourne Buildings
- Written by ACT Government
Released 06/12/2024
The revitalisation of the iconic Sydney and Melbourne Buildings in Canberra's City Centre will pick up pace as the buildings begin their much-anticipated facade restoration.
Repainting has started on the Melbourne Building at the corner of Alinga Street and Northbourne Avenue, which includes the business frontages of Amici Wine Bar and Deli, Bistro Nguyen's, and Smith's Alternative.
The Sydney and Melbourne Buildings are privately owned and comprise of four individual buildings with approximately 100 separate land titles, multiple owners, and no common management body.
Recognising the historical significance and unique architecture of the heritage-listed buildings, the facade restoration is a collaborative project between the ACT Government and building owners to restore and preserve these cherished Canberra landmarks.
A grants program was established by the ACT Government to support building owners to repaint their building facades. Building owners have been offered a grant from the City Renewal Authority to facilitate façade repainting work that is consistent with the original colour scheme specified in the buildings’ Conservation Management Plan.
Over the last 5 years, the ACT Government has engaged with building owners, businesses, and the broader community about the potential for legislation to maintain the buildings.
A final round of consultation on the legislative process for the buildings’ Revitalisation Plan will open soon to gather any outstanding comments on the plan before legislation to maintain the buildings is tabled with the ACT Legislative Assembly.
The plan has been developed over several years and City Renewal will seek feedback from the buildings’ property owners and interested heritage stakeholders before it is finalised.
The legislation would allow the Government to carry out and charge for the painting works if the building’s owners do not complete it themselves.
It is estimated that the façade repainting of both buildings will take 18 months to complete. Repainting of the building façades follows pavement, lighting and infrastructure upgrades to the buildings’ Odgers and Verity Lanes completed in 2023.
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister Andrew Barr:
“The Sydney and Melbourne Buildings present a unique challenge due to their large and diverse ownership structure with no common management body. This complexity has led to challenges in maintaining a consistent appearance, worsened by informal and uncoordinated refurbishment efforts.
“The Sydney and Melbourne Buildings hold a special place in the hearts of Canberrans. Through investment from the Government and collaborative efforts with building owners, the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings will continue to stand as proud symbols of Canberra's heritage and identity.”
Quotes attributable to Ravi Sharma, Sydney Building property owner:
“The façade repainting will really lift these beautiful buildings and help create a standout feature for visitors to the city.
“As a building owner, I certainly appreciate the ACT Government's support to preserve the character of these iconic buildings. The fresh façade will enhance the appeal of the businesses operating within them and be a drawcard for patrons.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
