Melbourne is set to join the global race to construct the largest non-functional building in an ambitious plan announced by the State Government, spurred on by the opening and then closure of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
That project was opened in January and then closed in February for unspecified reasons. At 828m in height, it claims the title of the world’s largest non-functional building: a glittering prize that the State Government now wants to claim for Melbourne.
“The Southern Star Wheel proved we have the skills and know-how to deliver a world class non-functional tourist experience,” said Premier John Brumby. “It was the largest non-functional building in the southern hemisphere; we believe we can surpass the Bhurj Khalifa and claim the title of the largest non-functional building in the world.”
Premier Brumby said that the government’s Development Facilitation Unit has already identified a range of non-functional buildings as priorities for fast tracking. These included both purpose-built non-functional landmarks, and conventional projects that could be rendered non-functional through simple design changes. These alterations might be as simple as the removal of lifts, plumbing, or a series of crucial supporting steel beams in the foundations.
In addition to facilitating non-functional private sector development, the government is also keen to unveil a range of non-functional infrastructure projects that they believe will stimulate the economy. These include a new alternative to the West Gate Bridge that will run halfway across the Yarra; a new tunnel linking the Eastern Freeway with a point 50m underneath Carlton; and a ticketing system for a multi-modal public transport system that only works on trains.
Together, the suite of private and public sector projects are set to put Melbourne at the forefront of the competitive white elephant industry. Yet the Premier insists the plans are realistic. “These aren’t pipe dreams,” he stressed. “These are shovel-ready projects that we can have wrecking-ball-ready within less than twelve months.”
Originally published in the “Clause 101” column, Planning News 36, no. 2 (March 2010): 30. Southern Star wheel photo by “woowoowooo,” used under Creative Commons Licence. Click image for details.