The Trenerry Consortium has received the go-ahead for its proposed $120m landmark redevelopment of Sherbrooke’s historic Burnham Beeches, which will welcome renowned wellness and sustainability hospitality operator Six Senses to Australia.
The Consortium has received a Heritage Victoria permit for the entire proposed master plan and the green light for the initial stage component from Yarra Ranges Council, with a further application to be lodged with the Council for the remainder of the master plan to bring the Council permit into line with Heritage Victoria’s permit.
These permits will enable the development team to undertake crucial conservation works to the existing buildings, alongside commencing construction of new buildings and upgrades to building and site services.
Notably, it will allow urgent repair works to begin on one of Australia’s most significant and unique art deco buildings – the Alfred Nicholas mansion.
The mansion has sat vacant for 36 years and is in need of urgent restoration and care.
The permits will also see works commence on the development of new buildings and landscaping, bringing the holistic restoration of Burnham Beeches – to be operated by Six Senses – another step closer to opening its doors and welcoming visitors once again.
The Trenerry Consortium, represented by The Victor Smorgon Group, The Kanat Group and Trenerry Property, has brought together the same team that delivered The Continental in Sorrento to Burnham Beeches, with expert Australian builders Hamilton Marino managing the build and restoration process, and global architecture firm Woods Bagot appointed as lead architects and designers.
Works are expected to commence onsite in October 2023, marking another major milestone for the project team in its journey to restore this site to its former glory.
With the team readying itself to commence building works, the ownership group is proud of the dedication of the project team and the in-depth consultation undertaken to reach this significant moment, which is reflected in the rapport developed with local community groups and passionate neighbours over the past 18 months.
“We are very excited and proud to have received Heritage Victoria’s approval for our entire masterplan, as presented to the local community and key stakeholders late last year. We value the feedback, support and contribution of the community, and will continue to do so throughout the development process and beyond.
“We are grateful for the ongoing support of Council and the local community as we work to restore Burnham Beeches to its former glory, keeping the restoration of the mansion and other heritage buildings at the heart of the project,” said Trenerry Director, Robert Dicintio.
Great granddaughter of Alfred Nicholas himself and once a Burnham Beeches resident, Sophie Paterson Nicholas, is assisting the Consortium to ensure all local stakeholders are kept informed.
“The vision for the masterplan is to create a culturally responsive, sustainable, and environmental offering whilst being respectful of the rich history and spirit of the Dandenongs, while ensuring a viable and lasting future for the estate that would be well received by the family,” she said.
In keeping with the Consortium’s key objective to bring the community along on the Burnham Beeches journey, a third community consultation session will be held at the property in the coming months.
Once again, the local community will be invited to meet with the project team to receive an update on program for refurbishment and voice any suggestions, feedback, or questions.
There will also be a further update on the already presented masterplan and its Stage 2 component, which the team expects to lodge with Council in the coming months.
For more information on the conservation and development of Burnham Beeches, visit: https://www.burnhambeeches.com.au/
