Posts Tagged ‘hotel’

Red Back Hotel being demolished in 2010. Image by Zxath used with permission

2010 is not off to a great start for appreciators of Melbourne’s art deco heritage, with the heritage listed art deco hotel in North Melbourne currently called the “Red Back” (formerly the Royal) currently being completely demolished to make way for student accomodation.  RealestateSource.com.au reported recently that the developer requested a permit upon purchasing the site after footballer Wayne Carey sold his interest in the hotel.

The building’s heritage significance was identified in the 1985 heritage report by Graeme Butler and it was subsequently graded C and included in the City of Melbourne’s heritage overlay HO3.  Its chamfered corner facade features a nice moderne stepped parapet with flagpole and curved balconette.

Once again the City of Melbourne’s photographic record is incorrect and illustrates an unfortunate modern extension however the council does not vouch for the accuracy of its heritage records. The developer’s render appears to deliberately omit the neighbouring rows of historic double storey terrace houses along Flemington Road.

Developer render of replacement studio apartment tower

The City of Melbourne granted a planning permit for demolition on the 27th October last year.  It is being replaced by a 9 storey complex of 210 studio apartments which will tower over neighbouring Victorian era terrace houses.

Thanks to reader Zxath for info and images.

The Age has reported that the Hotel Windsor’s renovation is on hold citing the economic crisis.

The $45 million project was controversial due to its plan to remove several heritage features from the grand old Victorian hotel and was heavily scrutinised by heritage advocates.