Posts Tagged ‘dimmeys’

The ABC television news recently ran a story about the demise of Dimmey’s in Richmond including the closure of the store, the planned hi-rise development behind the recently heritage listed tower, facadism and the demolition of the heritage listed “History of Richmond” mural to make way for a new multi-storey carpark.  The video footage features interviews with prominent locals including Mirka Mora.

The Age has also chipped in with an article specifically about the fate of the Hayden Dewar designed mural titled  “Dim Future for Dimmey’s Mural“.

The future of Dimmey’s is now in the hands of Heritage Victoria and a State Government whose planning minister Justin Madden has public stated his willingness to forsake our cultural heritage to stimulate the economy.

It would be a terrible tragedy for Melbourne to lose such an institution and important cultural landmark.

A 9 level tower could soon dwarf the landmark Dimmey’s clock tower in Richmond/Cremorne if Heritage Victoria approves the development.

The clock tower was recently added to the Victorian Heritage Register, however such a development if not handled sensitively could potentially not only spoil Dimmey’s, but the entire character of Swan Street.

Spotted on Realestatesource.com.au

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Spotted on realestatesource.com.au, usually pretty reliable with the insider tip-offs, there is a nomination pending for Dimmey’s at 140 Swan Street Richmond (actually Cremorne) to be added to the Victorian Heritage Register.

The aim would be to protect the landmark clock tower and its distinctive ball of the 1890s department store from inappropriate development.

The article seems pretty optimisting about the building being listed, however from what I’ve seen lately of the Heritage Council – don’t hold your breath.  If there is a proposal for a 20 storey glass box, they’re just as likely to support it being knocked down and commend the proposal’s “stunning contemporary design”.  Such is the zeitgeist.

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