Cultural heritage buildings must be saved

Tara Murray

Brimbank Council has welcomed the news that cultural heritage buildings on the former Sunshine Technical School site will not be demolished.

As reported by Star Weekly, the state government had issued an advanced tender notice for demolition compared to the former Sunshine Secondary School sites due to vandalism and antisocial behavior at the sites.

The decision has angered residents and councilors who want the historic buildings at Sunshine site at 111 and 129 Derby Roads to be salvaged.

The council has submitted nominations to Heritage Victoria for both the Sunshine Technical School building and the Sunshine Girls Technical School building to be listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Footscray MP Katie Hall provided an update on social media, which provided relief to residents and the council.

“The Victorian School Building Authority is considering demolition of certain buildings, but this will not include any of the buildings that have recently been nominated by the council to be included in the Victorian Heritage Register,” the update said.

“VSBA consults with the Brimbank Council regarding temporary use of the site and protection of the heritage buildings

“It is proposed that the open space on the site be made available to us by the adjacent Sunshine Elementary School as well as recreational use outside of school hours until the site is activated for future educational use.”

Brimbank Mayor Ranka Rasic said the council welcomes an assurance from the state government that the heritage buildings at the former Sunshine Secondary School will be preserved and protected.

“Last month, the council had applied for the site’s heritage sites to be included in the Victorian Heritage Register. We hope for a successful outcome to ensure the long-term recognition and protection of the heritage sites.

“Any temporary use of the second part of the site for Community purposes would also be very welcome.”