Southern Can Company

Southern Can Co. is of regional historical and architectural significance as the most substantial and skilfully designed of the Geelong Road factories from the WW II period. In terms of its application of the International or Dutch Moderne style, it rivals Billson's Warburton Sanitarium work except for the unfortunate painting of the brickwork. (Criterion F1) Historically it corresponds with a period of industrial expansion in several areas of the western suburbs which had a close relationship with the established munitions industry and the development of self contained wartime production which was unparalleled anywhere else in Melbourne. (Criterion D2) As one of a number of Moderne style factory complexes in the immediate area it contributes to an important industrial heritage precinct. (Criterion B2) The surviving landscape elements such as the palms are contributory.

Footscray Conservation Study SOS

Architecturally, the most substantial and skilfully designed of the Geelong Road Second War period factories, it rivals Billson's Warburton work except for the unfortunate painting of its brickwork. Historically, it corresponds with other industrial expansion in Footscray, particularly along major road routes and within a production sphere related to the approaching conflict.

Australian Heritage Commission (AHC) criteria

The Australian Heritage Commission criteria consist of a set of eight criteria which cover social, aesthetic, scientific, and historic values. Each criterion has sub-criteria written specifically for cultural or natural values. The relevant criteria are:

F.1 design or technological achievement .

D.2 good example of type

B.2 rarity

Group

Manufacturing and Processing

Category

Factory/ Plant