The next strokes of revitalisation are underway as the iconic Sydney and Melbourne Buildings in Canberra's City Centre begin their much-anticipated façade repainting.
Repainting has commenced on the Melbourne Building at the corner of Alinga Street and Northbourne Avenue, which includes the business frontages of Amici Wine Bar and Deli, Bistro Nguyen's, and Smith's Alternative.
The Sydney and Melbourne Buildings are privately owned and comprise of four individual buildings with approximately 100 separate land titles, multiple owners, and no common management body. Recognising the historical significance and unique architecture of the heritage-listed buildings, the façade repainting is a collaborative project between the ACT Government and building owners.
A grants program was established by the ACT Government to support building owners to repaint their building facades. All Sydney and Melbourne Building owners have been offered a grant to facilitate façade repainting that is consistent with the cream and white colour scheme in the buildings’ Conservation Management Plan, outlined by the Draft Revitalisation Plan – Façade Painting.
“The façade repainting will really lift these beautiful buildings and help create a standout feature for visitors to the city," said Sydney Building property and Reload Bar owner, Ravi Sharma.
“As a building owner, I certainly appreciate the ACT Government's support to preserve the character of these iconic buildings. The fresh façade will enhance the appeal of the businesses operating within them and be a drawcard for patrons.”
Over the last 5 years, the ACT Government has engaged with building owners, businesses, and the broader community about the potential for legislation to maintain the buildings.
A final round of consultation on the legislative process for the buildings’ Revitalisation Plan will open soon to gather any outstanding comments on the plan before legislation to maintain the buildings is tabled with the ACT Legislative Assembly.
The plan has been developed over several years and City Renewal will seek feedback from the buildings’ property owners and interested heritage stakeholders before it is finalised.
The legislation would allow the Government to carry out and charge for the painting works if the building’s owners do not complete it themselves.
It is estimated that the façade repainting of both buildings will take 18 months to complete. Repainting of the building façades follows pavement, lighting and infrastructure upgrades to the buildings’ Odgers and Verity Lanes completed in 2023.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
