University of Melbourne’s ambitious transformation plan awaits development approvals

The University of Melbourne has proposed a significant plan to enhance public accessibility by demolishing six buildings on its Parkville campus and creating 22,000 square meters of green space. The initiative, to be completed by 2040, involves removing certain landmark buildings like the John Medley Building, the Medical Building, and the Howard Florey Building, while preserving all heritage-listed structures. The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Duncan Maskell, expressed that this master plan aligns with their long-term strategic vision of transforming the traditionally inward-facing architecture into a space for the whole community.

The future's academic and research ambitions will significantly differ from the present. The vision revolves around making the university’s campuses more inclusive, accessible, and shared spaces for all communities, embracing a transformation towards a welcoming environment for staff, students, and the public. Historically, the University of Melbourne had been distant and unengaged with the local community, but now, with a new approach, it’s like breaking through the barriers and opening up to the world. Martin Brennan from the Carlton Residents Association acknowledged this positive change in the university’s planning.

He was quoted suggesting that the expansion should encompass the entire precinct. However, he acknowledged that recent developments, such as the new Metro Tunnel Parkville station, gave the latest blueprint a distinctive feel. The association had not yet discussed the specific buildings earmarked for demolition, but they expressed interest in exploring shared facilities with the university to enhance the student experience and add value to the community. Additionally, they wanted to see more pathways and routes opened around the university’s colleges.

The six buildings included in the demolition proposal are the John Medley Building on Grattan Street, the 757 Building on the corner of Swanston and Grattan streets, the Medical Building on Grattan Street, the Brownless Library on Grattan Street, the Howard Florey Building, and the 207-221 Bouverie Street Building.

The University of Melbourne, established in Parkville in 1853 with four structures, has grown to become one of Australia’s most prosperous and top-ranked universities, accommodating over 52,000 students across seven campuses.

Regarding the specific buildings, the John Medley Building, created by Sir Roy Grounds, who also designed the Arts Centre, is not regarded as one of his prominent works by the Royal Historical Society of Victoria.

The ongoing master planning process will extend into the next year, during which the university will delve into more specific aspects, including detailed planning, costs, and funding. The projects will be funded through the university’s capital works program The plan is yet to undergo the development approvals process.

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University of Melbourne’s ambitious transformation plan awaits development approvals

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