Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L00620:body:0:p84
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L00620
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 229872–232628

freestanding elements/buildings.  However, recognising that change is imminent, it is considered that new works within the site is an action that can reasonably be contemplated.
With regards to new development, there is a balance to be struck between the site's heritage values and attributes, and the objectives of the NCP.  The NCP contemplates development on the car park site to the east of West Block; a building of broadly equivalent footprint is also anticipated to the west of East Block.  The NCP also promotes a campus-style approach to development relating to Old Parliament House, East Block and West Block.  At the time the NCP was amended to include the campus model, the three buildings were in common ownership.  Since the disposal of East Block and West Block in 2017, that is no longer the case, a reality with consequences for the delivery of a co-ordinated approach to the use and operation of the three buildings.
Having regard to the above, a preferred approach to new development is one which:
       * Does not obscure key views and visual relationships, as identified in this conservation policy – i.e. Commonwealth Avenue;
       * Delivers a new built form (or forms) that does not rise above the parapet of West Block (AHD 581.10);
       * Keeps the footprint of a new building (or buildings) to the minimum required, recognising West Block's contribution to the symmetry of the Parliament House Vista;
       * Delivers a package of conservation works to the retained significant fabric and elements; and
       * Includes on-site interpretation to promote an understanding of the site's history and cultural heritage significance (see also Policy 24 'Interpretation')
A preferred location for new works is to the rear (east) of West Block, set away from Queen Victoria Terrace (and Old Parliament House) and set into the embankment to minimise its presence in key views of the building (Figure 51).
The appearance of new works, and the palette of materials, can contrast with West Block, but not in an obtrusive way.  The new building elevations should desirably be treated so as to visually 'recede' in views from the public realm.  A simple façade treatment, such as one with extensive glazing or a limited palette of materials, or simple detailing, would achieve this.  Consideration may be given to the use of timber cladding, a subtle reference to the 'temporary' nature of West Block in the 1920s, and the use of timber for the framing of the upper levels.
Figure 51 Aerial view of West Block: the location of an indicative building envelope is in pink
Source: www.nearmap.com

Small-scale additions
If small-scale additions are required to support a viable and sustainable new use for West Block, such as pergolas or a