The collaborative efforts of Albert Park College (APC), the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS), and the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) have given rise to an ambitious initiative—the Victorian Youth Arts Precinct. 

This transformative project seeks to establish a world-class facility dedicated to cultivating the talents of young artists and future professionals in the creative industries. Envisaged by Graham Burrows of Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, the precinct will feature cutting-edge amenities, including major and studio theatres, training and rehearsal spaces, exhibition areas, and the latest advancements in lighting, audio, digital projection, 3D, and stage technologies. The architectural vision places a strong emphasis on integrating with the site's heritage, with a transparent floating roof symbolising the harmonious fusion of the old and the new.

As a concerned parent with children attending APC, residing in South Melbourne, and a frequent user of Gas Works Park for dog walking and exercise, I am writing to express my wholehearted support for APC's commitment to developing facilities that possess architectural integrity and seamlessly complement the built environment.

However, I am compelled to address a matter of concern—opposition from a small minority of residents seeking to retain the full height of the 1950s orange brick wall that separates Albert Park College's new Youth Arts Precinct from Gasworks Arts Park. 

I firmly advocate for the Council to allow the VSBA to reduce the wall height for the following reasons. Firstly, the wall, dating back to the 1950s, lacks heritage value and detracts from the forward-looking design. Secondly, its full height makes it susceptible to graffiti, is adorned with razor wire, and stands as a conspicuous eyesore, inconsistent with the aesthetics expected in a public park or community facility. Thirdly, the towering structure poses significant security and safety risks by obstructing the public view of the Arts Precinct, thus violating council planning guidelines. Lastly, maintaining the full height of the wall hinders the new facility from fully integrating with the community and limits the expansion of the park's open space.

In light of these concerns, I request the Council to stand in solidarity with the school's vision and broader community and advocate for a lower wall. This approach not only aligns with the broader goals of the Youth Arts Precinct but also contributes to the enhancement of Gas Works Park, ensuring it remains a welcoming and integrated space within the community.

Learn more about this wonderful project here: https://www.vicyouthartsprecinct.com…and the great wall of graffiti: