"Acton", Residence

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE:

Constructed in 1930 as the private residence of Stewart Balfour, garage proprietor, "Acton" has regional historical significance for its associations with the important Geelong motor trade. Balfour Motors, which originally owned a cycle business in Malop Street, took over larger premises previously owned by Denys Lascelles, wool merchants, on the corner of Gheringhap and Mercer Streets, and provided new car and petrol sales and an early car wash and tyre retreading service. Balfour Motor premises were used during the 1930s as the Geelong headquarters of the R.A.C.V. It has regional architectural significance as a relatively rare and charming Tyrolean interpretation of the English Cottage manner. It is particularly intact and well maintained. Contextural elements such as garage, fence, gates and entry pergola, side hedge and garden, contribute to its significance.

RECOMMENDATION:

Existing Listings - None

Recommendations - RNE LPS Area 2 Place

REFERENCE:

Newtown Rate Book 1929, No 121.

Ibid 1931 No. 121.

Ibid 1932 No. 121.

Trevor Nicholls, Balfourn Motors (Formerly Balfour Bros. Pty Ltd, 1990, unpaginated.

Newtown rate book 1932 No 121.

Nicholls.

Ibid 20 April, 1932

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

Residence