To preserve the unique charm of Heathpool, a historic suburb in Adelaide’s east, a selection of homes will be safeguarded from demolition, thanks to the City of Norwood, Payneham & St Peters.
This initiative aims to protect the character of the area while highlighting the importance of buildings constructed during the inter-war period between 1919 – 1939.
The city is spearheading the Inter-War Housing Heritage Code Amendment, to regonise and protect home built between 1919 – 1939. The proactive effort designed to fill a crucial gap in heritage recognition and protection.
The new amendment proposes the introduction of a new Historic Area Overlay specifically for Heathpool, along with the identification of 20 new Local Heritage Places and 12 new Representative Buildings. One existing Representative Building will also see amendments to enhance its protective status.
In addition to these exciting developments, the Code Amendment will involve minor rezoning adjustments for a block of six units in Heathpool and a specific property, ensuring that the integrity of the Established Neighbourhood Zone is maintained. These changes will also extend to nearby suburbs, including Marryatville, St Peters, College Park, Hackney, Marden, Maylands, and Royston Park, enhancing heritage policies across the region.
Currently, many of the nominated properties lack demolition protection, raising concerns among local officials.
Fortunately, the Minister for Planning, Nick Champion, has placed the identified properties under ‘early commencement,’ providing interim protection while the Code Amendment undergoes consideration. This vital step prevents any premature development or demolition, giving these historic homes a chance to stand tall for future generations.
Minister Champion says a significant amount properties in the area have local heritage value.
“It’s essential that these properties are protected from demolition or development while the formal assessment for this Code Amendment is underway. As a state, we must continue to look at ways to safeguard our valued heritage assets.”
Cressida O’Hanlon, a representative from the Dunstan electorate, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the community’s passion for preserving local heritage.
“I am grateful for the responsiveness of Minister Champion in enabling our council to protect interwar houses from demolition,” she said.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to ensure the beauty and history of our local historic buildings are preserved for generations to come.”
The City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters received a grant of over $47,000 from the state government to support this vital heritage code amendment work.
Heathpool heritage houses rich history and character will now be cherished for years to come.