New Push For Iconic 'Countdown' Studio To Be Heritage-protected

A new push is being made for the iconic studio where ABC's Countdown was filmed to be heritage-protected in a bid to save the venue.

As News Corp reports, the now-decommissioned site, located on Gordon Street in Melbourne suburb Elsternwick, was to be sold to developers earlier this year before calls were made to save the famous Dream Factory, including Countdown host, Molly Meldrum. 

During a meeting this week, a heritage assessment report was submitted to Glen Eira councillors, recommending the venue be heritage-protected.

"Independent heritage advice commissioned by Council identifies that the ABC studios at 8 Gordon Street are considered to be significant at National, State and Local level for historical, architectural, cultural, social and technological reasons," the report reads.

"In light of this advice, it is recommended that Council seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to undertake the Planning Scheme Amendment Process to apply a Heritage Overlay to the site.

"To ensure the protection of the site while this process is underway, it is recommended that Council request the application of an interim Heritage Overlay."

The venue operated as a working television studio from 1956-2017, including for iconic comedy series Kath & Kim. ABC closed it in November last year after opening new studios in Southbank. 

The Music has contacted Glen Eira Council and ABC for further comment.