The Upper Esplanade is one of the world's leading raised boulevards, with sweeping views to the sea, the bay's distant shores and the horizon. On a clear day one might even see the tips of The Heads. The architect of this promenade was last century's visionary, Carlo Catani. Fortunately, the spirit of the St.Kilda's Edge UDF aims to preserve and enhance the Upper Esplanade's vista.
The land west of the Palais needs to be kept relatively open to preserve views from Upper Esplanade.
(UDF p 40)New buildings need to be carefully sited and kept relatively low so as not to block views to the Palais Theatre, or important seascape views from the Upper Esplanade.
(UDF p.40)
Q. Will views be protected? Are there building height limits?
A. Yes. The identification of views was a key component of the urban design framework and they have been listed in the planning controls and will therefore be protected and enhanced with many new views being created.
"New" views must not compromise the precious Upper Esplanade views fundamental to the "St.Kilda Experience". The Esplanade Alliance urges Council to be especially mindful of this promise to preserve Carlo Catani's century-old legacy—a jewel in Melbourne's crown and a defining element of St.Kilda's physical beauty.
It would be a desecration to allow more buildings of the bulk and height of the Sea Baths to further mar the Upper Esplanade views. One mistake is a major regret—more could be a death knoll.
This webpage is maintained by Cyndy Vogelsang on behalf of the Esplanade Alliance