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Cast-Iron Tram Shelter

Location north/west cnr Cotham and Burke Roads,, KEW VIC 3101 - Property No B7039 File Number B7039 Level State

Statement of Significance

This cast iron tram shelter, designed by the Prahran & Malvern Tramways Trust, and erected in 1916/17, is of State social, historic and aesthetic significance.
Socially and historically, this shelter is 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.
Aesthetically, the cast-iron shelters, of which there are three in Melbourne, are delightful examples of street architecture (the others, also classified, are in Armadale B7051, and Caulfield B3312). They are modelled on the Melbourne City Council standard 19th century cast-iron verandahs, but lower, featuring Corinthian columns, and 'rinceau' pattern cast-iron friezes. Given the removal of most cast-iron verandahs in the suburbs, they are rare survivors.
Historically, they are a prominent reminder of the former Prahran & Malvern Tramway Trust, a municipal enterprise set up in the early years of this century, and are a design unique to that company. The three shelters remaining indicate the former extent of what was the largest independent electric tram network in the suburbs.
Classified: 03/04/2000