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About the project
Key Details
- About The Project
In 2007, the Parramatta Fire Station (originally constructed in 1938) underwent significant changes because of a residential tower being constructed directly on top of it. The residential tower literally rises out of the two-story building with major columns founded within the footprint of the heritage building. The construction of the tower required a massive transfer beam above the heritage building to take the weight of the 30- odd floors above. Heritage 21’s involvement in the project spanned the entire spectrum from the initial planning stages, concepts and involvement in the approval [pathway though to actual construction (checking on protective measures for the heritage item and onto final certification including public artwork. Heritage 21 undertook photographic archival recording and an interpretation strategy which is currently displayed in the foyer of the residential tower building. During construction, Heritage 21 undertook periodic inspections to ensure that all remaining heritage fabric was properly and effectively protected.
- What was done
A high-rise residential tower was constructed immediately behind and partially over the original 1938 Fire Station Building on Church Street in Parramatta. Heritage 21 worked closely with the client (Estate Constructions of Australia) and the design team including Think Planning. Throughout all stages of the project, Heritage 21 was involved in a detailed level ranging from meetings with Parramatta Council, the DA lodgement, the tender process, and the physical construction on site. In particular, Heritage 21 was directly involved with the interpretation panel in the foyer of the building and the public art project on the panel outside the building.
- Time frame
3 years
Services provided
- Management of the public art and interpretation
- Statement of Heritage Impact
- On-site Heritage Architect
- Engagement with the design team
- Temporary Protection Plan
- Concept development
- DA documentation (heritage reports)
- Approval pathway – negotiation with Council
- Heritage Interpretation strategy
Why was the work undertaken?
The 1938 Fire Station was in a dilapidated state prior to its conservation under Heritage 21 guidance. By council granting permission for the residential high rise building behind the Fire Station, an opportunity was provided for the conservation of the Heritage listed building. This public / private exchange allowed for the reactivation of the derelict building along with supplementary interpretation and public engagement with it.
Who was the work completed for?
Estate Constructions of Australia
Outcome
The outcome of this project was to reactivate the derelict and moribund fire station which had been in a poor state of disrepair when the Fire station was decommissioned. The ground floor of the building was turned into retail tenancies and the upper floor of the Fire Station was converted into flats. In this manner a new lease of life was acquired for the building with ample interpretation to provide a good understanding of its historical antecedent to residents and visitors.
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