Residents have told Port Phillip Matters that they are pleased to see restoration works have started on historic buildings that previously housed the Roti Man Indian Restaurant, Newsagent, and Lars Ice Bath (relocated across the road).

One resident said “the restoration of these historic buildings is welcome and will greatly enhance our Middle Park village.  I look forward to this restoration contributing to the renaissance in our quiet, beautiful village. This builds on the amazing attention to detail applied by Bebo Living to renovating 24 Armstrong Street.”

Another resident said “It is great to see the early signs of change taking place".   

The Planning Application for the restoration works of the historic buildings revealed that a new upscale wine store is expected to open on the ground floor of the building and offices or residences will be constructed on the first level. The application stated the “Use of the land for a bottle shop (as of right use), sale of packaged liquor for consumption off the premises pursuant to Clause 52.27 (Licensed premises), external painting of a building within the heritage overlay and construction and display of internally illuminated signs”.

The jury for some is still out on the prospective tenant of the wine store, fearing the size may overwhelm the village character and atmosphere. Only time will tell.