The Queen Victoria Market’s open-air sheds are part of its unique character and are culturally and historically significant. However due to their age, significant conservation works are being undertaken to ensure they continue to be a part of Melbourne’s heritage long into the future. The repair, conservation and restoration of the open-air sheds is a key market renewal project, as outlined in the 2015 Master Plan.
Of the market’s 12 historic sheds, ten have already been restored over four stages since 2020. These include Sheds A, B, C, D, E, F, J, K, L and M. Sheds H and I are the last two to be restored and will re-open following the Trader Shed works.
Shed restoration works are authorised under Heritage Victoria Permit Number P318866
Stage 5: Sheds H and I
In January 2023 the heritage shed restoration program moves to the final stage in Sheds H and I. Fruit, vegetable and organics traders from Sheds H and I will be temporarily relocated to Sheds C and D while restoration and new market infrastructure works occur.
A view of the city from the sheds during roof works
Replacing the roof with new insulated roofing
Load testing the shed structure
Restoration of concrete bases
New wiring to provide power to traders
A view of the city from the sheds during roof works
Replacing the roof with new insulated roofing
Load testing the shed structure
Restoration of concrete bases
New wiring to provide power to traders
Shed history
The market’s sheds have been standing for more than 140 years with sheds A to E built in 1878 for the market’s opening. They are listed on both the National Heritage List and Victorian Heritage Register.
As Melbourne and the market have grown, the sheds have evolved with additional sections and verandahs added and numerous repairs and reroofing works undertaken. Despite considerable additions and phases of refurbishment over the years, the original form and fabric of sheds A to E remains reasonably intact.
Background
The on-site repair, conservation and restoration of the open air sheds is a key market renewal project, as outlined in the 2015 Master Plan (PDF 13.5 MB) and supported by a recommendation in the People’s Panel Report (PDF 860 KB).
The works will be carried out across 12 sheds covering three hectares of the seven hectare market site. The conservation works and structural upgrades have been devised with as minimal impact as possible on the heritage fabric. As much as possible, all original materials will be preserved and any elements that cannot be salvaged will be replaced on a ‘like-for-like’ basis.
Through renewal of the Queen Victoria Market, we’ve committed to preserving the market's long history, restoring its heritage buildings and securing its place as a traditional open-air market. Learn more about the ways in which the renewal program will preserve the market’s history and heritage.
