Macedon Ranges Residents Association is calling for the number of Gisborne and Kyneton sites to be protected and placed under the heritage overlay to be greatly increased.
Among the sites missing from Macedon Ranges council’s nominated 38 sites for heritage protection is the oldest building in Gisborne, according to association secretary Christine Pruneau.
Built in 1855, St Paul’s Parish Hall, on Fisher Street in Gisborne, was deemed “not worthy” of being included for protection in the council’s Gisborne and Kyneton Heritage Study.
Ms Pruneau has asked why the process has been so selective in determining which buildings are to be saved.
“Wouldn’t you think the oldest building in Gisborne, with state significance, and the only one left of its kind in Australia, would be a no-brainer for an overlay?” she said.
The association is in favour of the council’s intention to put heritage overlay on the sites, which will ensure planning permits would be required for any buildings and works that could affect the heritage significance of the properties.
“It’s good news that additional heritage overlays are being included in Macedon Ranges planning scheme,” Ms Pruneau said. “But it’s only 38 of them.”
When the heritage study was released for public consultation last month, council chief executive Margot Stork said it was the council’s role “to preserve, celebrate and enhance the region’s cultural heritage”.
Feedback on the study can be submitted to mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay before May 2.
