Under the plan, several of the university’s landmark buildings would be torn down
The university is one of the Melbourne cityscape’s most prominent institutions. The uncosted master plan aims to turn its traditionally inward-facing architecture into a space to be used by the entire community. “At the heart of this vision is an aspiration to open up the university’s campuses, to make them more accessible for our staff and students and to transform them into shared places that are more welcoming for all communities.”
“Planners have now recognised that if you’ve got these openings, you should extend that into the rest of the precinct.” Parkville Association president Rob Moore also liked the idea of more green space and a greater sense of community. But he said he had asked for reassurance that Grattan Street would remain open to traffic.
The John Medley Building was designed by Sir Roy Grounds, the architect of the Arts Centre, but the Royal Historical Society of Victoria does not consider it one of his significant buildings.Charles Sowerwine, chair of the society’s heritage committee, said the initial design envisaged two bluestone-cladded towers creating a ceremonial entry to the university. This was abandoned in the face of bureaucratic obstacles, leaving a “rather pedestrian” building.