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Church Street Bridge

Location

Church Street / Chapel Street / Alexandra Avenue,, RICHMOND VIC 3121 - Property No B5505

File Number

B5505

Level

State

Statement of Significance

The Church Street bridge, completed in 1924, is historically, technically and aesthetically significant at State level.
HISTORICALLY - Replacing an earlier iron bridge over this important Yarra crossing, this was the first major bridge over the Yarra for 25 years, and the first of a group of important new classical bridges. It played a significant cultural role in strengthing the South Yarra/Richmond axis at the time, and was seen as a symbol of progress and brotherhood. Its civic function continues today.
TECHNICALLY As in this example, reinforced concrete technology of the time commonly used reinforced concrete for all structural elements. John Monash's Reinforced Concrete and Monier Pipe Construction Company dominated early reinforced concrete bridge construction in the first quarter of the century, although in this case the bridge was built by his company, but not designed by Monash. The engineering role was taken by J A Laing. Although common overseas, it was an unusual structural type for a bridge in Victoria, having open spandrel colonades, one of only two known to the Trust.
AESTHETICALLY Each of the three arches has infill of an 'arcade' above. The "Edwardian Baroque" piers at river level, and four pairs of pylons at road level provide the main decoration. The bridge is an excellent example of the architect Harold Desbrowe Annear's late work, forming part of his developing ideas on urban design.
Classified: 01/06/1998

Group