Cyprus Community of Victoria’s ‘village’ on track with demolition hoped by year’s end

The vibrant spirit of the Cypriot community, recently showcased at the bustling Halloumi Festival, is now fuelling a transformative development project in Brunswick East.

The Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria (CCMV) is forging ahead with plans for a six-storey “Greek village” at 495 Lygon Street, a project destined to become a cultural and community cornerstone.

CCMV President Theo Theophanous’ vision is ambitious: a 600-square-metre function room, a traditional kafenio, retail spaces, community offices, a potential after-hours school, a consular office, a rooftop garden, and 50 apartments, all anchored by underground parking. However, the path to realisation has presented its share of challenges.

Merri-bek City Council confirmed planning is underway.

“Conditions of the planning permit require the submission of revised plans and other expert reports to be approved by Council before the development can proceed,” a Council spokesperson told The Greek Herald.

Theophanous confirmed to The Greek Herald that these documents have been submitted, and the project is now navigating the amendment process.

“We have sent through required documentation, but there has been a to-and-fro process and some obstacles,” he explained.

“We resolved the noise issue, and after submitting documents, we need a few more amendments. Getting the plan endorsed is only part of the issue. We have to make a few adjustments to the endorsed VCAT plan, not in terms of height, but in terms of the car park.”

Specifically, soil tests revealed a high water table, necessitating adjustments to the car park’s design.

“Soil tests showed that the water table is at a certain level that allows us two levels [of underground parking],” Theophanous said, highlighting the need for detailed revisions. “I estimate that the amendment would just take a couple of months.”

Despite hurdles, Theophanous remains resolutely optimistic.

“My objective is to knock down the building before the end of the year,” he affirmed.

He also stressed the importance of securing pre-sales for 15-16 apartments to trigger the developer’s contractual obligations.

“We are providing leads of people who may be interested in buying, especially those who would be attracted to living in a Greek, Cypriot building,” he said, adding that several CCMV board members are also considering buying apartments.

“It is exciting because it is close to the tram line, central, surrounded by restaurants.”

The CCMV redevelopment project’s potential for community enrichment is undeniable. The new building will serve as a vital hub for cultural events, gatherings, and essential community services and is a significant investment in the Cypriot community’s future and the broader Merri-bek area.

Theophanous hopes the popular Halloumi Festival will gain even more momentum with the new building, jump-starting a mini-Antipodes Festival. Successful even without government funding, Theophanous hopes that the government will see its value sooner or later.

“Merri-bek City Council welcomes applications from community groups to reserve venues and public spaces available for special events,” a Council spokesperson said.

Theophanous is already looking at next year’s Halloumi Festival venue and is open to all suggestions.