University of Melbourne's Demolition Plan for John Medley Building Faces Criticism

The University of Melbourne plans to demolish the John Medley Building, a modernist structure designed by Sir Roy Grounds and built in the late 1960s. This decision has faced criticism from leading academics within the university.

Academics Denounce Demolition

Professor Philip Goad, chair of architecture at the university and chair of the Heritage Council of Victoria, urged a reconsideration of the plan, citing the building's heritage significance.

Professor Christopher Marshall, an art history and curatorship professor, referred to the planned demolition as an "act of cultural vandalism," emphasizing the building's status as a major public work by a significant Australian architect.

The John Medley Building, which underwent refurbishment for $4.5 million less than a decade ago, serves as the southern gateway to the campus and is a popular photo location for students. While not officially heritage-listed, Goad argued that it contributes to the university's character and fosters human-scaled outdoor spaces.

University Cites 'Unfit for Purpose' Issues

Professor Jennifer Balint, Dean of Arts, informed staff in December of a planned relocation for mid-2026, which was later deferred to 2027.

Balint acknowledged staff's appreciation for the building but cited "significant limitations, including major accessibility issues," as factors rendering it "unfit for purpose into the future."

Professor Alison Young, who participated in the 2018 refurbishment, noted the extensive design and renovation process that aimed to align with Grounds' architectural philosophy. She described the building as "incredibly well-thought-out."

Environmental and Financial Concerns

Professor David Nichols, an urban planning expert, suggested that renovating the existing building would be more environmentally responsible and cost-effective than demolition and rebuilding. He raised questions about the university's sustainability commitments in light of the demolition plan.

A university spokesperson stated that the demolition would facilitate the creation of a "contemporary, purpose-built teaching space" intended to be a "focal point for student activity." This initiative is part of a broader, long-term estate master plan, published in 2023, which outlines the demolition of several late 20th-century buildings and the development of new parkland, with a projected completion date of 2040.