ST KILDA TRIANGLE A SHARED VISION
Version 3 Objectives and Principles Contents
Councillors’ message 4
Introduction 5
Site context 6 The evolution of the place 6 In recent times 7
What is this Vision project? 8
Community engagement 10
What’s been said? 11 What do we want? 11 What don’t we want? 11
A draft Vision 13
What will it look like? 14 What will we do there? 16 How do we get there? 18 What is our legacy? 20 Version 3 Version 3
St Kilda Triangle project timeline 22 A SHAREDVISION A SHAREDVISION ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
2 3
21/July/2011 © /CS/IS/GIS/25593 Introduction
FROM LEFT RIGHT: St Kilda is one of Melbourne’s most colourful and Cr Frank O’Connor, Cr Judith Klepner, Cr John Middleton, Mayor Cr Rachel Powning, well known suburbs, attracting a diverse range of Cr, Serge Thomann, Cr Jane Touzeau, Cr Janet Bolitho, residents, visitors and workers. The iconic suburb is best known for its public spaces and attractions such as the St Kilda beach, Fitzroy and Acland streets, the Palais Theatre, the Espy and Luna Park.
As a beachside suburb, St Kilda has a distinct flavour and vibrant atmosphere. Its built heritage, and active and diverse community are important elements of the local character and cultural identity. Councillors’ message The St Kilda Triangle is Crown land situated at In 2008 the community led action to oppose the the heart of this eclectic suburb. Located near the proposed development of the St Kilda Triangle site. St Kilda foreshore, it serves today as the Lower This public involvement changed the face of Council. Esplanade car park.
After some time to reflect, we began a new The St Kilda Triangle is adjacent to the Palais Theatre conversation about the future of the site. We’ve and includes land that formerly accommodated the heard from you how important you think the St Kilda
Version 3 Palace Nightclub. The land is generally bounded by Triangle is to St Kilda and to Melbourne. Version 3 Jacka Boulevard, the Esplanade and Cavell Street, and is approximately 15 000 square metres in area. Following more than six weeks of consultation and feedback from more than 900 people, we are happy to present a shared Vision for the future of the
A SHAREDVISION St Kilda Triangle. A SHAREDVISION
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4 5 Site context
The evolution of the place In recent times
Before European settlement, the area now known as The process to develop the St Kilda Foreshore Urban St Kilda was largely shrubland, lagoons, sand dunes Design Framework (UDF) began in 2001. The UDF and swamplands. To its traditional owners, the Yalukit provided a strategic framework for development along Willam and the Kulin Nation, it was called Euroe the St Kilda foreshore, including the St Kilda Triangle Yroke. This area provided them with seasonal shelter, site, and it identified a number of projects to achieve food and ceremonial grounds. Today, St Kilda foreshore the vision. Council adopted the UDF in 2004. continues to be an important meeting place for Indigenous people. The principles that the UDF identified for the future of the St Kilda Triangle site included: After European and Asian arrivals in the 1840s, St Kilda was transformed from swampland to a bustling seaside 1920s view of the Palais de Danse on the St Kilda- increased public space settlement. The swamps were gradually reclaimed, Triangle site from the Upper Esplanade. The Palais low rise development and by 1884 the foreshore was drained to become Theatre, as it appeared at that time, is between the a recreational space. In 1906 the St Kilda Council protection of local culture Palais de Danse and Luna Park. established the Foreshore Trust, and the area was uses consistent with the site’s entertainment history. ‘beautified’, with Carlo Catani re-inventing the area as a Mediterranean-style resort with amusement and Following an Expression of Interest process, Council entertainment parks, tearooms, a kiosk and Luna Park. awarded a tender to the Citta Property Group in 2007, with Babcock & Brown as the preferred The foreshore became a vibrant seaside entertainment developer for the site. precinct, and this function has become part of the area’s acknowledged character and heritage. The Palais By mid 2007 community opposition to the planned Theatre, Luna Park, Catani Gardens, St Kilda Pier and development was mounting. The community felt it was the St Kilda Sea Baths all make up part of this history. not heard during the planning process, and differences emerged over the interpretation of the UDF. These This theme also forms the background to the St differences made the community feel its concerns and Kilda Triangle, which is so called because it refers aspirations were not being considered. to a triangle shaped parcel of land that occupies a strategically and historically important location Following an election, in December 2009 the new between the Esplanade and the foreshore. It is
Version 3 Council negotiated an agreement with the developer Version 3 bordered by Jacka Boulevard, the Lower Esplanade and and abandoned the proposal for the Triangle site. the much loved heritage listed Palais Theatre that was built in the 1920s by architect Henry E. White. Since the development of the UDF, changes have occurred around the St Kilda Triangle. The Palace Other surrounding features of note are the iconic palm site was cleared after a fire, and some of the A SHAREDVISION trees along the Esplanade, the grassy slopes between A SHAREDVISION projects proposed in the UDF have been successfully the Upper and Lower esplanades, and the public toilets implemented. These projects include the tram super to the west of the site. The Triangle site also once stops constructed at Luna Park and Fitzroy Street, included the Palais de Danse (adjacent to the Palais and the successful new boardwalk built along the Theatre), which fire destroyed in 1968. The Palace foreshore. Nightclub that was built in its place in 1971 was also destroyed by fire (in 2007), leaving the site clear
ST KILDATRIANGLE except for the Palais Theatre. ST KILDATRIANGLE
Today, the St Kilda Triangle site is primarily used as a carpark.
6 7 What is this Vision project?
The purpose of this project is to develop a Vision to secure the future of the St Kilda Triangle.
The project includes: engaging with the community and key stakeholders to develop a vision and principles to inform options for the site clarifying questions about the site identifying land management issues that need to be resolved developing planning scheme amendments to ensure the Vision’s outcomes.
The site under consideration centres on the St Kilda Triangle site. The boundaries are part of the conversation so we can all agree on what’s included and what’s not. The Lower Esplanade, the Upper Esplanade, Jacka Boulevard and Cavell Street may all play a part in the future of the St Kilda Triangle site, and their relationship to the site will depend on the project discussion. They certainly form part of the site’s context.
Most importantly, Council acknowledges the community’s desire to protect the St Kilda Triangle’s Crown land status. This Vision identifies the site as a public place accessible to the whole community.
Council also acknowledges the important role of the Palais Theatre in the precinct, and the theatre’s relationship to the Triangle site.
Council remains committed to a fully functioning and Version 3 renovated Palais Theatre, and believes this outcome is Version 3 best delivered through a separate process. This Vision project considers the possible future growth of the Palais to ensure the theatre’s long term viability. A SHAREDVISION A SHAREDVISION ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
8 9 community engagement What’s been said?
Before starting to engage with the community Council has received substantial input from the community about the St Kilda Triangle, the City of Port Phillip about the St Kilda Triangle site. Our consultation has prepared a report titled St Kilda Triangle: Towards confirmed the following messages, which are what we have a Shared Vision. consistently heard.
In June 2011 Council presented the report to community representatives at an Ideas Forum, What do we want? to discuss and consider. Subsequently, Council made revisions to the document that incorporated Public space feedback and new ideas. The new document, St Kilda A green landscaped space that is contemporary, Triangle: Towards a Shared Vision, Version 2, formed the but that reflects and responds to Carlo Catani’s basis of a six week community engagement program landscape vision and Indigenous heritage that began in August 2011. Sustainable development that accounts for the future impacts of climate change and storm surges During the six week engagement program, Outcomes that respond to the sensitive Council sought community feedback on the Vision context and respect the surrounding buildings, document and ideas about the future of the site. The heritage, location, setting, and topography engagement discussion focused on intangibles such as: how the St Kilda Triangle will feel, how it will A strong creative arts focus look, how it will be used, how it will be accessed, Improved beach access for pedestrians, including how it will be inclusive and safe, and how it will pedestrian priority over cars reflect the values and aspirations of the community. Optimised public transport opportunities Some car parking The community engagement process was designed to capture as broad a range of views as possible in A diverse commercial offer that supports the a variety of ways. It involved speak outs, surveys, creative focus and strengthens the precinct questionnaires, vox pops, focus groups with live music opportunities community members who are hard to reach, maintained views of the foreshore roundtables, social media and a website. A proposal that is affordable A partnership with the State Government During the six weeks, over 900 people registered to leave a comment and actively participated, while clarity of what will happen on the site many more were informed of the process, obtained A plan developed by Council with the community Version 3 copies of the report and/or visited the website. Version 3
What don’t we want?
the status quo
A SHAREDVISION Land uses that drive outcomes of inappropriate scale A SHAREDVISION large retail and/or commercial development land uses that are dominated by alcohol Negative impacts on our local retail strips car parking that is visible Obscured views of the Palais, beach and horizon ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE A project that is too expensive to deliver
10 11 A draft Vision
Based on what we’ve heard, we have the following draft Vision for the site:
The St Kilda Triangle is a loved seaside place
that acknowledges and builds on the local
character and location.
It is a public place supported by a mix of uses
to make it attractive, and welcoming.
It makes St Kilda a great place. Version 3 Version 3 A SHAREDVISION A SHAREDVISION ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
12 13 What will it look like?
Theme 1 Open space and landscape Theme 2 Built form and heritage
Will there be a public space and will it have trees and gardens that How will new buildings fit in with iconic structures such as the look like other parts of the foreshore? How will Catani’s vision be Palais Theatre and Luna Park? How big could any buildings on respected? How will it improve the foreshore without obstructing the the site be? views of the sea, the Palais Theatre and Luna Park? Objectives Objectives Any buildings and landscaping on the St Kilda Triangle The open space and landscape of the St Kilda Triangle respect the architectural and cultural history and context reflects its unique location as a seaside urban place that of St Kilda, the Palais Theatre, Luna Park and the Upper is a beachside place surrounded by medium density Esplanade. residential development, a variety of recreational uses and the Palais Theatre. Any new buildings will draw on the loved aspects of surrounding architectural and cultural icons, in how The St Kilda Triangle strengthens the connections to they contribute to the foreshore and work together as the foreshore and draws on Carlo Catani’s vision of a neighbours. seaside entertainment precinct to create a legacy for future generations. Any buildings create spaces between them that are activated, safe, interesting, attractive and functional, as Just as the recent foreshore promenade has reinvigorated well as integrating with the landscape and open space. the walk along the beach and created another layer of Just as the Palais and Luna Park tell people that they experience, the St Kilda Triangle adds further to the are in St Kilda, the St Kilda Triangle adds another bold rich social history of the area. statement that strengthens the area’s identity.
Landscape, open space and any buildings are all carefully This place we leave behind will be this generation’s considered together to create an integrated whole. The contribution to St Kilda’s history. important views are clearly defined to allow for positive additions and prevent unsightly obstructions. Principles
The St Kilda Triangle’s role as a public place accessible to 2.1 Any new built form on St Kilda Triangle respects the whole community is clearly defined, reflecting its the Palais Theatre as the dominant built form. Crown land status. Version 3 2.2 Any new built form activates, contributes to, Version 3 Principles and is a part of the landscaped public place character. 1.1 the St Kilda Triangle is a public place supported by cultural uses and limited built development. 2.3 Any new built form creates a variety of indoor
A SHAREDVISION and outdoor spaces that are activated and A SHAREDVISION encourage year-round use. 1.2 The St Kilda Triangle has a green, urban character and a landscape that reflects its seaside location and history. 2.4 Any new built form recognises and enhances the 1.3 the Indigenous heritage and European social history qualities and originality that give St Kilda and the St Kilda Triangle their valued identity. as a seaside entertainment precinct are interpreted in
ST KILDATRIANGLE the landscape, open space and plantings. ST KILDATRIANGLE
1.4 Key views are defined to allow for positive additions.
1.5 A network of spaces creates physical and visual links 14 15 to and from the foreshore, Acland and Fitzroy streets and the Upper Esplanade. What will we do there?
Theme 3 A place for everyone Theme 4 Culture and recreation
How will the area be used? How can we make How will the site be used? What can I do there? everyone feel welcome? Objectives Objectives Any new uses for the St Kilda Triangle support the All St Kilda’s residents and visitors are welcome. adjacent attractions such as the Palais Theatre, Luna The spaces and experiences are safe, diverse and Park and the Esplanade Market. allow people to use them freely. The St Kilda Triangle provides new opportunities for These spaces vary in size and function, and are designed cultural activities that could include event, gallery, for use both day and night. Some are public spaces, stage or entertainment space. These uses are open and and others offer a variety of things to do to encourage flexible, reflecting the seaside character, history and people to the site (cultural facilities, cafes, restaurants, recreational uses of the site. shops). The latter are more intimate spaces where people feel comfortable to gather. The public spaces are used for a variety of cultural and performance activities. The site considers its entertainment, leisure and residential neighbours. As an open and landscaped place, the St Kilda Triangle is in strong demand for recreation. It allows people to Principles throw a ball, go to an event, get something to eat and drink, listen to music or just relax. 3.1 the St Kilda Triangle is a public place that welcomes locals and visitors. Principles
4.1 the St Kilda Triangle is a place where you can 3.2 the St Kilda Triangle provides diverse just hang out. opportunities for people to visit, enjoy and explore. 4.2 The St Kilda Triangle reflects the creative, inclusive spirit and heritage of St Kilda. 3.3 the St Kilda Triangle is designed to be safe and accessible both day and night, and 4.3 uses on the St Kilda Triangle support community Version 3 throughout the year. and cultural activity in St Kilda. Version 3
3.4 the St Kilda Triangle adapts to new 4.4 the design of the St Kilda Triangle explores technologies and social changes. ways to engage with the Palais Theatre. A SHAREDVISION A SHAREDVISION ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
16 17 How do we get there?
Theme 5 Transport and access Theme 6 Commercial limits and opportunities
How do we balance traffic circulation and parking What do we need to make the Triangle work? with public transport? How do we improve connections for pedestrians? How do we get to the beach or Objectives Fitzroy and Acland streets? The St Kilda Triangle includes a mix of uses that make Objectives it active and interesting, and contribute to the surrounding area. Walking, cycling and public transport are easy first New opportunities complement the surrounding choices to get to the St Kilda Triangle. New works attractions and the foreshore, as well as Fitzroy and improve walking and cycling links to the foreshore and Acland streets. Fitzroy and Acland streets, as well as to bus and tram stops. Commercial opportunities contribute to the site’s future, but do not drive its redevelopment. These may Some car parks ensure the operation of the Palais be cultural spaces or venues. Any commercial and Theatre. Any parking (except for special needs) on the retail space on the site, however, is limited and clearly site is underground or screened from view, to maximise described. Public spaces and other uses at the St Kilda the public use of the St Kilda Triangle at street level. Triangle predominate.
Principles Principles
5.1 the St Kilda Triangle encourages access by 6.1 New commercial activities on St Kilda Triangle walking, cycling and public transport. must be subsidiary to the site’s primary purpose as a public place.
5.2 Any car parking on the St Kilda Triangle is out of view. 6.2 Any commercial development is small scale and not visually dominant. It complements the 5.3 the St Kilda Triangle improves walking and cycling public space and the recreational and cultural connections from the Esplanade to the foreshore. character of the site. Version 3 Version 3 6.3 the mix of commercial uses help activate the space day and night, year round and create a vibrant and safe environment.
A SHAREDVISION 6.4 Social enterprise business is encouraged as a A SHAREDVISION part of the site’s mix of activity. ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
18 19 What is our legacy?
Theme 7 Sustainability
How do we create a sustainable asset for the future that doesn’t burden the community or the environment?
Objectives
The St Kilda Triangle shows environmental, economic and social sustainability leadership for new public spaces.
Green technologies and design are used to reduce the St Kilda Triangle site’s impacts, and to mitigate against future energy and water needs, climate change and storm surges. The site acknowledges that the diverse and sometimes contrasting social needs of its different user groups are part of this sustainability. This inclusiveness is an important part of St Kilda’s character that we want and need to retain.
The financing for the construction and ongoing use of the St Kilda Triangle site are part of the discussion of the site’s future. Any project represents a good public outcome.
Principles
7.1 the St Kilda Triangle demonstrates excellence in the sustainable design, form and function of its structures, public spaces and landscape.
7.2 the concept and construction of the St Kilda triangle site create a legacy for many generations.
Version 3 7.3 Designs anticipate future climate change and Version 3 storm surges.
7.4 Stormwater is captured on site and from the Palais Theatre, for non-potable uses and to
A SHAREDVISION irrigate landscaping. A SHAREDVISION
7.5 green waste is recycled and reused on site where practicable, and all other waste is minimised. ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE
20 21 ST KILDA TRIANGLE PROJECT TIMELINE
2011 STAGE 1 ENGAGEMENT COUNCIL ACTIONS To validate the themes as the IDEAS FORUM 1 – 22 June 2011 DRAFT VISION guiding framework VERSION 1 Consolidate feedback
DRAFT THEMES & VISION FOR ENGAGEMENT
2011 STAGE 2 To expand the themes with WEBSITE DRAFT VISION feedback and supplementary • online forums VERSION 2 information from engagement FACE TO FACE ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY ENGAGEMENT • focus groups • interviews • speak outs • on-site events • round tables
IDEAS FORUM 2 REVIEW
VISION AND PRINCIPLES DECEMBER 2011
2012 STAGE 3 To build upon the vision WEBSITE ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY and principles with detailed • online forums guidance from other studies VIEWS & VISTAS ANALYSIS Version 3 CONTAMINATION REVIEW Version 3
PALAIS REQUIREMENTS
CAR PARKING STUDY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT A SHAREDVISION A SHAREDVISION • information forums • questionnaires VISION
A SHARED VISION FOR THE ST KILDA TRIANGLE J U LY 2 0 1 2 ST KILDATRIANGLE ST KILDATRIANGLE 2012 IMPLEMENTATION PALAIS FUTURE PREPARATION PLANNING STATEGY SCHEME AMENDMENT
22 To implement the vision 23 For more information, please call ASSIST on 03 9209 6777 Facsimile: 03 9536 2722 SMS: 0432 005 405 or email: [email protected]
National Relay Service Assistance: 24 hour TTY / Voice: 133 677 Speak and Listen: 1300 555 727
You can also visit our website: www.stkildatriangle.com.au
Postal address: City of Port Phillip Private Bag 3, PO St Kilda, Vic 3182
For a translation of this information, please contact the Council's interpreter service.
Please contact ASSIST on 03 9209 6777 if you require a large print version of this brochure.
ST KILDA TRIANGLE A SHARED VISION
Version 3 Objectives and Principles