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Tram Shelter

Location NE Cnr Macarthur Street & St Andrew's Place,, EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002 - Property No B4747 File Number B4747 Level State

[1/1] B4747 Tram Shelter

Statement of Significance

The tram shelter, designed by F Stapley in 1917 for the Tramways Board, is of architectural, aesthetic historic and social significance at the State level.
Socially and historically, these shelters are part of a group of 16 early tram shelters that survive in inner city and the middle ring suburbs, that are together considered the most important, and enjoyed items of historic street furniture in Melbourne. They are widely regarded as an essential part of the character of Melbourne as a 'tram city', and important historic elements of the tram system. They have provided shelter to many commuters over the years and provided delight to the thousands of passers-by.
Classified: 03/04/2000



Historically, this shelter is important as one of the few tangible reminders of the Tramways Board, the short-lived precursor to the M& MTB, built when cable trams still operated in the city, but conversion to electric systems was planned.



Architecturally and aesthetically, this shelter is a delightful picturesque pavilion, displaying an interesting mix of architectural motifs and materials. Details such as the prominent pointed end barge boards, propped overhanging gable ends, terracotta shingles, shiplap weatherboarding, and multipane, arched head windows provide an architectural significance greater than its small size would suggest. Frank Stapley, the architect, was a notable figure in the Town Planning movement.