MORE heritage buildings will be retained on the former Marian College site following a rethink of plans.
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Developer Nicolas Daoud made the call after meeting with his heritage consultant. Council’s heritage advisor, Louise Thom, had also warned of “adverse impacts” if proposed demolition went ahead.
The Sydney man bought the property in March. The 12,600 square metre site on the corner of Bourke and Clinton Streets, contains significant historic buildings built for the Sisters of Mercy.
Mr Daoud hopes to lodge a development application soon, transforming the area into a conference and function centre, serviced apartments, 16 residential villas and possibly some retail.
The property falls within the heritage conservation zone, triggering higher protection.
Mr Daoud originally planned to only keep the 1861 chapel and convent, off Clinton St. But Ms Thom said this would lead to demolition “of a number of potentially significant buildings.”
She recommended that no decisions be made on the development until the owners commissioned a conservation management plan.
“Once I saw the concern from Council’s heritage advisor and talked to planning staff, I decided to keep more buildings,” Mr Daoud said.
“There was potential for it (the original plan) to be challenged and I don’t want this to take years. The site is in danger of more vandalism.”
His heritage consultant also spent three days on site last week. Mr Daoud previously told the Post he wanted to respect the property’s history.
Now, the developer will keep everything on site except buildings north of the old convent.
The retained structures include a large, more modern former classroom block fronting Clinton St, an adjacent block inside a courtyard designed by EC Manfred (circa 1890) and the old school hall (which would house the conference centre).
Buildings proposed for demolition include classroom blocks at the rear and the former music room, off Bourke St.
Councillors discussed the project and heritage advisor’s report at their meeting on Tuesday. They agreed to consider allowing residential uses within the zone only after the developer provided a heritage impact statement and conservation management plan.
Residential is normally prohibited within the commercial core zone but can be considered under planning laws if it leads to conservation of historic structures.
Mr Daoud also provided details of his amended plans to the meeting.
Mayor Geoff Kettle said he and Deputy Mayor Bob Kirk were impressed by Mr Daoud’s developments in Wollongong, which they recently visited.
“I think this will immensely enhance and beautify the area,” he said of the Marian site.
“I compliment the developer on this investment in Goulburn. I know there’s a lot of work to do yet.”
Cr Margaret O’Neill said she had also met with Mr Daoud.
“I’m pleased that to see someone with initiative taking this on because it’s been an eyesore for 40 or 50 years.
“There’s a fair bit of heritage there but won’t it be delightful to see something nice in Clinton St? Let’s sell Goulburn.”
Mr Daoud told the Post he was awaiting his consultant’s heritage report. He would then meet with Council and Ms Thom.
“I think she will be happy,” he said.
“I have taken what she has said on board.”
A development application is expected within months.
