Plans have been submitted to Heritage Victoria and the City of Yarra for the demolition and commercial redevelopment of the low-rise Mercy Health nursing home buildings on the front west corner of the historically significant Abbotsford Convent precinct.
At four floors high (plus basement), 60 new units of 2-3 bedroom ‘residential living for over 55s’ – complete with penthouse apartments and underground parking for 69 cars – will overshadow and dominate the iconic frontage of the National Heritage Listed 1902 Convent buildings and 1872 Convent Chapel.
21 years ago, the locally-formed Convent Coalition fought and won a seven-year community campaign to save the Convent from being demolished and turned into an exclusive residential development. In 2004 the State Government handed the keys to the Convent back to the community for public benefit: a protected space for arts, culture and learning. The proposed plans for the Heritage Registered parcel of land are of no social benefit to anyone but those who can afford these new luxury apartments.
The 14-day submissions period came to a close on Tuesday June 17.
Members of the public who wish to request access to the proposed plans or voice their views and concerns can contact Heritage Victoria directly by emailing: heritage.permits@transport.vic.gov.au
