Non-domestic Buildings
3.09. The extent of redevelopment in the Central District of Victoria has left few examples of Victorian architecture and with the demolition of Prince's Building, the Hong Kong Club Building is probably the best example remaining. Office accommodation is still in great demand and many large office blocks were planned or under construction.
Dangerous Buildings
3.10. 42 Closure Orders were obtained for buildings which had become dangerous through fire, dilapidation, or other causes, and 215 notices to repair premises in a dangerous condition were issued. A total of 121 calls were received in respect of dangerous buildings, landslips, fires and other emergencies. Typhoon 'Wanda' was responsible for the majority of these calls, but fortunately structural damage suffered during this typhoon was not great.
3.11. A new section of the office was in process of formation to deal with the problem of dangerous buildings and the procedure for the implementation of the new legislation regarding demolished buildings.
Assistance to other Government Departments
3.12. The routine assistance extended to other Government Departments was continued and included 960 inspections of licensed premises and schools.
Approval of plans
3.13. A total of 9,813 approval permits for buildings and building operations were issued. In the last two years there has been more than a 100% increase in the number of approval permits issued.
3.14. Details of the buildings and building operations are given in Appendix H.
Issues of Notices and Permits
3.15.
(1) Occupation permits were issued in respect of 1,075 new buildings completed in the year, of which 873 were for domestic purposes. (2) A total of 393 notices were issued for the removal of illegal structures and the abatement of drainage nuisances.
(3) Demand notes for permits to erect balconies and canopies over public streets and Crown lands to the value of $4,913,528.00 were issued. (4) 1934 miscellaneous permits for matsheds, hoardings, and scaffoldings (including renewal of permits) were issued.
(5) 22 Cease works orders were issued.
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