New vision for local eyesore

The order to demolish will be issued when all relevant permits authorising activity on the street are finalised. The upcoming demolition marks an important milestone in the renewal of the site.

Opening in 1913 as The Port Melbourne Theatre, the building became a battery distribution centre then office and retail space after the curtain closed on the theatre in 1952. A separate single fronted brick commercial building is connected to the south side of the main building.

Most of the building was destroyed by fire in 2015 which left behind a burnt-out shell in one of Port Melbourne's most prominent locations.

Today, only the perimeter walls, facade and part of the roof structure remain at the corner of Liardet and Bay Streets.

At Council's Planning Committee meeting on 22 July 2026, Councillors approved a request from the new owner to extend the site's planning permit by two years, provided redevelopment works commence by 30 May 2028.

The approved permit allows for construction of a three-storey building featuring a tavern and restaurant, outdoor terrace, rooftop bar, shops and office space. As part of the site's heritage protections, the prominent street-facing facade will be rebuilt in the new redevelopment.

Although progress has taken longer than expected due to circumstances surrounding the landowner's estate, Council is working closely with the owner's representative to coordinate the necessary approvals. 

Councillors also requested that the owners work with Council to provide for a temporary activation of the site, to be undertaken following the demolition works.