The City of Sydney has approved the redevelopment of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern, Sydney, Architecture AU has reported.
The church filed a development application with the City of Sydney almost two years ago and it has now been approved, having undergone negotiations with the Heritage Office and Transport for NSW.
The cathedral itself is recognised as the centre of Greek Orthodoxy in Australia and has been heritage listed.
The redevelopment, which is worth an estimated $27.5 million, has been designed by Candalepas Associates and will focus on the conservation of the 173-year-old church, the demolition of the existing theological building and the construction of two three-storey buildings.
It will see the inclusion of a new wing of accommodation and offices in the St Andrew’s Theological College, a great hall building to receive international guests, and a museum to keep and showcase important artefacts of religious value that have been collected and gifted over the last century.
According to Architecture AU, the works will incorporate the characteristics of Orthodox architecture, including the use of domes.
In a statement last year, Nicholas Pappas, the Honorary Secretary and Trustee of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia Consolidated Trust, said the redevelopment was “necessary not only to repair ageing and deteriorating infrastructure of the Archdiocese, but will also improve functionality and ensure the Archdiocese’s facilities meet the needs of our community.”
READ MORE: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese site in Redfern to undergo historical refurbishments
SOURCE: Architecture Au
