Holy site: Jennifer Bantow at the church earmarked for redevelopment.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
REDEVELOPMENT plans threaten the “significance” of an historic church in Geelong, according to the National Trust.
Geelong branch spokesperson Jennifer Bantow called the 1865 Mt Zion Particular Baptist Church in Lt Ryrie St an important building.
But the redevelopment proposed to demolish part of the church’s eastern wall and add a rear extension, she said.
Heritage Victoria granted a permit for the development even though the church was listed on the state’s heritage register.
Mrs Bantow said the church deserved protection.
“There are not many buildings still around from such an early date and as intact as this,” she said.
“I can’t believe it received a permit for such extensive development.
“There’s no problem with changing the use to a cafe because that’s often a good use of a historic building but the building can still be conserved and adapted to that use while respecting its historical significance.
“This plan is in essence ripping off two sides of the building with development that is extremely inappropriate and unsympathetic to historical significance of the building.”
Mrs Bantow said the National trust would seek permission to object to the plans in a bid for an improved design.
Plans submitted to council propose a cafe with 46 seats indoors, 18 outdoors and 16 “alfresco”.
The rear extension includes a kitchen, storerooms, office and toilets. The redevelopment would turn a former baptismal font into a water feature.
The permit conditions include the engagement of a heritage consultant, appropriate recording of the building, an interpretation plan and restoration work.
The heritage entry for the church says it was historically significant for its religious association with the Strict and Particular Baptist Church.
“The simple, classically inspired building with its plain, hall-like interior reflects the austere nature of the denomination,” the entry said.
“The church is the oldest known extant church of the Particular Baptist Church in Victoria and one of only two still used for its original purpose.”
Church redevelopment designer Tony Preiato said his clients had followed Heritage Victoria and council protocols for several months.
“We believe the extension respects the building. It’s a simple form and we’ve retained the view from the street, so it won’t detract from the historical significance.”
