The magnificent Victorian Centenary Bridge (designed to overpass the rail line) with its art deco detailing was demolished here in 1991. Only a lone art deco pylon remains as a souvenir of its splendour. This bridge, built during the depression by ‘susso’ or depression labour, celebrated 100 years of settlement. The art deco motifs of Centenary Bridge echoed those of the new and glamorous ocean liners and were intended by the Harbor Trust to create a fitting gateway to the State. The destruction of the bridge was part of a grand design by government and developers to create a luxury housing enclave that never eventuated. The Port Melbourne foreshore has been the subject of fierce debate as the local community struggled to preserve heritage in the face of intensive development.
by cityofportphillip on March 31, 2016Please login to comment on this item