Importance of Heritage Protection for Communities

Preserving heritage is crucial for maintaining a sense of history, identity, and community pride - but it is also an important environmental and climate action. Research repeatedly shows in full Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) that restoration and renovation has a lower impact on the environment and climate than a demolition and reconstruction.

Results of one study showed that timber and concrete are the most valuable materials to rebuild the structures in case of demolition, contrarily to steel which leads generally to higher environmental impacts. Refurbishment scenarios generally account for a lower global warming potential (GWP) even if demolition, waste treatment and benefit from recycling/reuse are taken into account.

This was my argument for the preservation and restoration of the Carnegie Memorial Swimming Pool instead of a costly demolition and reconstruction costing now $75 million. A thorough LCA would have revealed better environmental and climate outcomes and very likely have cost much less while still being able to be restored and upgraded to modern standards of energy efficiency and sustainability.

Research on people’s perceptions of historic places has shown they often prefer agedness and wornness over traditional conservation works that make places look new again…

Heritage sites and buildings connect us to our roots, illustrating our journey and evolution over time. They serve as tangible reminders of the past, allowing current and future generations to learn from, appreciate, and respect the traditions, cultures, and stories that have shaped our community.

We have lost too many wonderful historic properties, including the imminent loss of Whitmuir Hall Killearnan at the Bentleigh Club.

By safeguarding our heritage, we create spaces that foster a sense of belonging, unity, and continuity. They contribute to the unique character and charm of our neighbourhoods, attracting visitors, businesses, and investment while enhancing local economies.

Carnegie Caulfield War Memorial Swimming Pool

Image credit: https://vwma.org.au/explore/memorials/7501

Photographs, x 4 Black & White, Whitmuir Hall / Killearnan / Bentleigh Club 1930, c1930

My Commitment as a Local Councillor

As a local councillor in Jasper Ward, I am dedicated to championing heritage protection initiatives to ensure our community's rich legacy is preserved and celebrated for generations to come:

1. Advocating for Stronger Heritage Policies: I will work to strengthen existing heritage protection policies and advocate for the designation of new heritage sites to safeguard our community's historical significance.

2. Engaging with Stakeholders: I will actively engage with residents, local businesses, heritage experts, and community groups to gather diverse perspectives and insights on heritage preservation strategies.

3. Promoting Heritage Education and Awareness: I will support initiatives that promote heritage education, awareness, and appreciation through community events, workshops, and heritage walks. Plaques recognising valuable known history of period properties (my own 101 year old rental home has a fascinating story!). All period properties of any age are valuable for our community, not just those worthy of official heritage protection.

4. Collaborating for Sustainable Heritage Preservation: I will collaborate with developers, heritage organisations, and government bodies to find sustainable solutions that balance preservation needs with community growth and development.

5. Ensuring Accountability and Transparency: I will uphold accountability and transparency in decision-making processes related to heritage protection, keeping the community informed and involved every step of the way.

By prioritising heritage protection and preservation efforts, we can enrich our community's cultural tapestry, strengthen social cohesion, and foster a deep sense of pride and belonging among residents of Glen Eira and Jasper Ward.