Heritage protected

Montague precinct houses and shops are among some of the historical sites to be protected following changes to the City of Port Phillip’s planning scheme.

Councillors unanimously endorsed planning scheme amendment C117 in December in order to better protect historically significant sites in what is now Australia’s largest urban renewal area.

Federation houses and shops at 496-510 City Rd and 157-163 Montague St are among some of the sites identified for permanent protection, which Minister for Planning Richard Wynne will now consider for a heritage overlay.

Port Phillip Mayor Bernadene Voss said the new protections highlighted council’s focus on preserving the community’s built heritage while Fishermans Bend was transformed into a large inner-city precinct.

“Council has acted to ensure the heritage significance of these important sites is taken into account for any potential development applications in the future,” she said.

According to council’s review, 157-163 Montague St is home to Federation shops and houses, which are of local significance having formed part of the renewal of the commercial frontages in the Montague Precinct.

496-498 City Rd is also home to two Federation shops/houses, which were part of the rejuvenation of Montague in the early 20th century.

The building at 508-510 City Rd is said to be of no significance but has been proposed for permanent protection due to it adjoining significance graded heritage buildings.

Council has requested the Minister for Planning extend interim controls, which apply to the sites to ensure they are protected until, or should, the permanent controls be approved.