Drastic plan to revamp landmark David Jones store

Developers hope a major revamp of David Jones’ landmark Bourke St store will attract a new “flagship” international tenant.

A major redevelopment plan has been lodged to transform half of a landmark David Jones store.

A major redevelopment plan has been lodged to transform half of a landmark David Jones store in Bourke St into prime office space.

A rooftop terrace, offices, supermarket and modernised shops form part of a $22.5m blueprint for the heritage-listed building at 299 Bourke St and 278-286 Little Collins St.

Newmark Capital, the ­company that owns the building, has sought a planning ­permit from the City of Melbourne for part demolition, building and works.

It would retain the lower levels of the historic building for retail use, and the upper storeys would be adapted for office use and roof terraces would be added at levels four, five and six.

The building would be broken into several shops instead of just one, with David Jones consolidating its CBD operations into its other prime premises on the other side of Bourke St, next to Myer.

Heritage Victoria will also consider the proposal, which would restore some period ­features, but also demolish the existing Bourke St and Little Collins St shopfronts and canopies of the “Commercial Gothic’’ building.

Newmark Capital said a downturn in retail and the effect of Covid-19 formed part of the decision to revamp the building

Deputy Mayor Nick Reece said the proposal would “need to recognise the area’s special character and history’’ and “be very carefully considered’’.

“Bourke Street Mall is the heart of our city and a prime retail destination known across the country,’’ he said. “It’s incredibly exciting to see a proposal to transform the former David Jones building.”

Newmark Capital said a downturn in retail and the effect of Covid-19 lockdowns in the CBD formed part of the decision to revamp the building.

“Retail and hospitality in the CBD has born the brunt of lockdowns and reduced activity, and this proposal will attract activity and new retail tenants,’’ it said.

A 2245sq m supermarket has been proposed for the basement.

A single “flagship” international tenant “in fashion, electronics or cosmetics’’ will be sought for the blue-chip ground and first-floor space facing Bourke St.

The Victorian Heritage Register lists the seven-storey building with a four-storey extension as “one of the most exuberant and colourful interwar buildings in the city’’.

David Jones is to leave the building by mid 2022.